Final answer:
The Body Mass Index (BMI) calculates body fat by dividing weight by the square of height (in meters). The formula provided by the student is incorrect; the correct formula uses weight over height squared. BMI categorizes weight ranges but has limitations and varies across different groups.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Body Mass Index (BMI) is a tool used to estimate the fat content of the body by calculating the ratio of a person's weight in kilograms to the square of their height in meters. An accurate formula to calculate BMI is BMI = [weight (kg)] ÷ [height(m)]². However, the formula provided in the student's question is incorrect. To correct it, the accurate formula to calculate BMI should consider weight as kilograms divided by the square of height in meters, not height divided by the square root of mass.
A normal weight BMI ranges between 18 and 24.9, while a BMI of 25 to 29.9 is considered overweight, and a BMI of 30 or above is considered obese. It's important to note that BMI is not always a perfect measure of body fatness and can be influenced by muscle mass, bone density, and overall body composition. Additionally, BMI may not be an accurate measure for children and adolescents due to their growth and development stages.
BMI-related health risks can vary between different racial and ethnic groups. Understanding BMI and its limitations is essential when assessing one's health status and potential risks for conditions such as cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes.