Final answer:
The correct answer to calculate the calories in a flour tortilla is to multiply the amount of each macronutrient by its caloric value per gram: 3g of fat at 9 cal/g, 2g of protein at 4 cal/g, and 17g of carbohydrates at 4 cal/g. The total is 103 calories, which is answer a.
Step-by-step explanation:
To calculate the calories provided by a flour tortilla containing 3 grams of fat, 2 grams of protein, and 17 grams of carbohydrates, we need to use the caloric values per gram for each macronutrient. Fat provides 9 calories per gram, protein provides 4 calories per gram, and carbohydrates provide 4 calories per gram. To find answer in 2 lines, simply multiply the macronutrient amounts by their respective caloric values and add them up:
- Fat: 3g × 9 cal/g = 27 cal
- Protein: 2g × 4 cal/g = 8 cal
- Carbohydrates: 17g × 4 cal/g = 68 cal
Adding these together gives us 27 cal + 8 cal + 68 cal = 103 calories. So, the correct answer is a. 103 calories.
The explanation in 200 words about how calories are counted on food labels and how macronutrients contribute to the total energy intake is important. Calories provide us with the energy we need to function, and counting them can help in managing weight and maintaining a balanced diet. The values for the calories per gram of fat, protein, and carbohydrates are well established through scientific methods like bomb calorimetry and the Atwater system, which are then widely applied to determine food's energy content.