Which statement correctly describes the difference between kilocalories and calories?

• A. 1 kilocalorie is equal to 100 calories.
• B. 1 kilocalorie is equal to 1 calorie.
• C. 1 kilocalorie is equal to 1,000 calories.
• D. 1 kilocalorie is equal to 10 calories.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the basic unit of energy called a calorie (cal), which is commonly used in chemistry and nutrition to measure energy.
2. Recognize that the prefix 'kilo-' in the metric system means 1,000 times the base unit.
3. Apply this knowledge to the term kilocalorie (kcal), which means 1,000 calories.
4. Compare the given options to see which correctly reflects this relationship: 1 kilocalorie = 1,000 calories.
5. Conclude that the correct statement is '1 kilocalorie is equal to 1,000 calories' based on the metric prefix definition.