Which statement best explains why the body can obtain water from sources such as milk, juices, fruits, and vegetables?

• A. Water is a universal solvent and is present in many foods and beverages.
• B. Water in foods is chemically different from the water in beverages.
• C. Only pure water can be absorbed by the body; other sources must be converted first.
• D. The body cannot extract water from foods, only from liquids.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of water as a universal solvent. Water is capable of dissolving a wide variety of substances, which makes it present in many foods and beverages, including milk, juices, fruits, and vegetables.
2. Step 2: Recognize that water in foods and beverages is chemically the same as pure water. The molecular structure of water (H₂O) does not change whether it is in a liquid or solid form, or mixed with other substances.
3. Step 3: Clarify that the body can absorb water from various sources, including foods and beverages. Water does not need to be converted into a different form before absorption; it is extracted during digestion and absorbed by the intestines.
4. Step 4: Eliminate incorrect statements. For example, the statement 'Only pure water can be absorbed by the body; other sources must be converted first' is false because the body can extract water from foods and beverages without conversion.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct explanation is: 'Water is a universal solvent and is present in many foods and beverages,' as this aligns with the biological understanding of water's role in the body.