Micronutrients ________.
a. Include vitamins and carbohydrates.
b. Are not metabolized to produce energy.
c. Contain more energy than fatty acids.
d. Can be synthesized by most cells.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the term 'micronutrients'. Micronutrients are nutrients required by organisms in small amounts to support physiological functions. They include vitamins and minerals, but not macronutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, or fats.
2. Step 2: Analyze option (a): Vitamins are micronutrients, but carbohydrates are macronutrients. Therefore, this option is incorrect because it includes carbohydrates, which are not micronutrients.
3. Step 3: Analyze option (b): Micronutrients are not metabolized to produce energy. Instead, they play roles in enzymatic reactions, immune function, and other cellular processes. This statement aligns with the definition of micronutrients.
4. Step 4: Analyze option (c): Fatty acids are macronutrients and are a dense source of energy. Micronutrients do not contain more energy than fatty acids because they are not energy sources. This makes the statement incorrect.
5. Step 5: Analyze option (d): While some cells can synthesize certain vitamins (e.g., vitamin D in humans), most micronutrients must be obtained from the diet. This makes the statement incorrect. Based on the analysis, option (b) is the correct answer.

Key Concepts

Micronutrients

Micronutrients are essential nutrients required by the body in small amounts for various physiological functions. They include vitamins and minerals, which play critical roles in processes such as immune function, bone health, and energy production. Unlike macronutrients, which provide energy, micronutrients do not directly contribute to caloric intake but are vital for overall health.

Vitamins

Vitamins are organic compounds that are crucial for normal growth and metabolism. They are classified into water-soluble (e.g., B vitamins, vitamin C) and fat-soluble (e.g., vitamins A, D, E, K) categories. Each vitamin has specific functions, such as acting as coenzymes in metabolic reactions or serving as antioxidants, and deficiencies can lead to various health issues.

Energy Metabolism

Energy metabolism refers to the biochemical processes that convert nutrients into energy within the body. While macronutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, and fats are metabolized to produce energy (calories), micronutrients do not provide energy directly. Instead, they support the metabolic pathways that enable the body to utilize macronutrients effectively.