Final answer:
Total energy expenditure includes more than just the energy for basic functions, encompassing physical activity, and temperature regulation in addition to basal metabolic rate.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement 'Total energy expenditure is the energy our bodies expend to maintain basic functions' is false. Total energy expenditure refers to the sum of the basal metabolic rate (BMR), the energy expended in physical activity, and energy used for thermoregulation of body temperature.
In essence, while BMR accounts for about 70% of the daily energy expenditure by maintaining basic functions of organs, the remainder of total energy expenditure includes physical activities and temperature control, encapsulating more than just the energy to sustain basic life functions.