14.1.3a Balanced Diet and Calorific Value (MCQ)

Two individuals, Alex (a professional swimmer) and Sam (an accountant), are of the same age and body weight. Based on the factors influencing calorie needs, which statement is most likely true? Alex requires significantly more calories than Sam due to high physical activity levels. Sam requires more calories because mental work burns more energy than physical work. Both require the exact same amount of calories since their age and weight are identical. Sam requires more calories because sedentary bodies lose heat faster.

In a calorimetry experiment, burning a 2g food sample raised the temperature of 50g of water by 10°C. Using the formula provided in the notes (Specific Heat Capacity = 4.2 J g⁻¹ °C⁻¹), what is the energy released per gram of food?

Which of the following food samples would you expect to yield the highest calorific value per gram if tested in a calorimeter? A block of pure lard (Fat) A cube of sugar (Carbohydrate) A piece of dried lean meat (Protein) A piece of dried bread (Carbohydrate)

If a food label states that a serving contains 200 kcal, what is the equivalent energy in kilojoules (kJ)?

Why is Climate/Surroundings listed as a factor influencing calorie needs? In cold climates, the body uses more energy to maintain body temperature. Hot climates directly cause the body to store more fat. People in temperate climates naturally have slower metabolisms. Food contains more calories when eaten in colder environments.

What is the primary consequence of consistently consuming fewer calories than the body requires for its daily activities and metabolic processes? Weight loss and potential nutrient deficiencies. Immediate development of obesity. An increase in muscle mass and tissue repair. A sudden increase in metabolic rate.

A student eats a meal consisting only of sugary snacks and soda. Even if the total calorie count meets their daily requirement, why is this NOT considered a balanced diet? Because it lacks the right amounts of all food classes necessary for health and growth. Because the calorific value of sugar is too low to provide energy. Because sugary snacks cannot be oxidised in the body. Because liquids like soda do not count towards calorie intake.

In the determination of calorific value using a calorimeter, why is the water temperature measured? To calculate the heat energy released by the burning food. To determine if the water has reached boiling point. To ensure the food sample remains moist during combustion. To measure the calorific value of the water itself.

Based on the notes, how does age generally influence calorie needs? Calorie needs vary, with growing children and teenagers often needing more relative to their size. Calorie needs remain constant from childhood through old age. Older adults always require more calories than teenagers due to body size. Infants require the highest total calories of any age group.

Which of the following is a recommended healthy eating practice mentioned in the notes? Balancing calorie intake with physical activity. Maximizing the intake of salt and sugar for energy. Consuming only fats to ensure high energy levels. Avoiding all carbohydrates to prevent weight gain.