Final answer:
The correct answer is c) 13 essential vitamins required for human life. These include both water-soluble vitamins like Vitamin C as well as fat-soluble vitamins like Vitamins A and K. Essential nutrients, including vitamins, cannot be synthesized by the body and must be ingested through diet.
Step-by-step explanation:
Essential Vitamins for Human Life
Humans require a total of 13 essential vitamins for proper bodily function, which means that the correct answer to the student's question is c) 13. These vitamins are critical in small quantities for various functions such as vision, blood clotting, forming red blood cells, and overall growth and development. It is important to note that not all nutrients can be synthesized by the body; for instance, vitamins must be obtained through diet because the body cannot produce them on its own. Some vitamins like Vitamin C and the B vitamins are water-soluble, and others, such as Vitamins A, D, E, and K are fat-soluble. Misconceptions such as the notion that the body cannot store any micronutrients are incorrect; while water-soluble vitamins need regular replenishment, fat-soluble vitamins can be stored by the body to some extent. It is also essential to clarify that the statements which propose that essential nutrients can be synthesized by the body or that vitamins B and C are fat-soluble are not true. The body cannot synthesize essential nutrients; they must be ingested. Additionally, Vitamins B and C are water-soluble, contrary to the mistaken claim stated in the question.