Which statement best describes minerals?

Which statement best describes minerals?

• A. Minerals are micronutrients that are inorganic elements found in a variety of foods
• B. Minerals provide energy
• C. Minerals are a type of carbohydrate
• D. Minerals are vitamins with long shelf life

Answer: (A)

Minerals are inorganic elements the body needs in small amounts to support many functions. They are essential micronutrients that participate in processes like building bone, regulating fluid balance, and acting as cofactors for enzymes. Because minerals are inorganic and do not contain carbon–hydrogen bonds, they do not provide energy; calories come from carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are not carbohydrates, which are a separate macronutrient group that supplies energy. They are not vitamins, which are organic compounds with different properties; minerals are more stable and come from a wide range of foods and water. Therefore, minerals fit best as micronutrients that are inorganic elements found in a variety of foods.

Minerals are inorganic elements the body needs in small amounts to support many functions. They are essential micronutrients that participate in processes like building bone, regulating fluid balance, and acting as cofactors for enzymes. Because minerals are inorganic and do not contain carbon–hydrogen bonds, they do not provide energy; calories come from carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are not carbohydrates, which are a separate macronutrient group that supplies energy. They are not vitamins, which are organic compounds with different properties; minerals are more stable and come from a wide range of foods and water. Therefore, minerals fit best as micronutrients that are inorganic elements found in a variety of foods.