The energy derived from the consumption of foods and beverages contributes to _____.

• A. the production of external sound waves
• B. the synthesis of atmospheric gases
• C. cellular processes such as growth, repair, and maintenance
• D. the direct absorption of sunlight

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context of the question: The energy derived from food and beverages is a form of chemical energy stored in the bonds of macromolecules like carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. This energy is used by living organisms to perform various biological functions.
2. Recall the concept of cellular processes: Cells require energy to carry out essential functions such as growth (e.g., cell division), repair (e.g., fixing damaged DNA or membranes), and maintenance (e.g., maintaining ion gradients across membranes).
3. Eliminate incorrect options: The production of external sound waves and the synthesis of atmospheric gases are not biological processes directly powered by the energy from food. Similarly, the direct absorption of sunlight is a process associated with photosynthesis in plants, not energy derived from food in animals.
4. Focus on the correct option: The energy from food is primarily used in cellular processes. These include ATP production through cellular respiration, which powers various cellular activities.
5. Conclude: The correct answer is that the energy derived from food contributes to cellular processes such as growth, repair, and maintenance, as these are fundamental to the survival and functioning of living organisms.