Final answer:
During their peak growth spurt, adolescent males are at greatest risk for Iron (C) deficiency because iron is critical for hemoglobin synthesis, which is essential for oxygen transportation in the body.
Step-by-step explanation:
During their peak growth spurt, adolescent males are at greatest risk for a deficiency of Iron (C). Iron is a crucial element for many biological processes, including the formation of hemoglobin in red blood cells, which is essential for transporting oxygen throughout the body. The requirement for iron goes up significantly during adolescence, especially for males, due to their rapid growth and increase in blood volume. An iron deficiency can lead to anemia, which is a common issue during the peak growth phase. While other nutrients like phosphorus, copper, and vitamins are also vital during growth, the risk of iron deficiency is particularly high due to its critical role in hemoglobin synthesis.