Which of the following is a water-soluble vitamin?

• A. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
• B. Vitamin D (cholecalciferol)
• C. Vitamin E (tocopherol)
• D. Vitamin A (retinol)

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the classification of vitamins into two main groups: water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins. Water-soluble vitamins dissolve in water and are not stored extensively in the body, while fat-soluble vitamins dissolve in fats and oils and can be stored in body tissues.
2. Recall that the water-soluble vitamins primarily include the B-complex vitamins and Vitamin C (ascorbic acid). These vitamins need to be consumed regularly because they are excreted in urine.
3. Identify the vitamins listed in the problem: Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), Vitamin D (cholecalciferol), Vitamin E (tocopherol), and Vitamin A (retinol).
4. Recognize that Vitamins A, D, and E are fat-soluble vitamins, meaning they dissolve in fat and are stored in the body's fatty tissues and liver.
5. Conclude that among the options, Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is the only water-soluble vitamin, which is essential for functions such as collagen synthesis and antioxidant protection.