Question

Which statement identifies a difference between fat mass and muscle mass? A. Fat mass is active during resting, but muscle mass is not. B. Fat mass requires a lot of proteins to grow, but muscle mass does not. C. Muscle mass is active during exercise, but fat mass is not. D. Excess sugar in the body affects muscle mass, but fat mass is not affected by excess sugar.

Answer 1

The statement that muscle mass is active during exercise, but fat mass is not, correctly identifies a difference between fat mass and muscle mass. Muscle mass is metabolically active at all times, even at rest, contributing to overall metabolic rate, while fat mass serves primarily as an energy reserve.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct statement that identifies a difference between fat mass and muscle mass is: C. Muscle mass is active during exercise, but fat mass is not. This is because muscle tissue requires energy to contract and perform work during physical activities, whereas fat mass essentially serves as a reserve of energy and does not directly engage in the exercise process. To elaborate, muscle tissue is metabolically active, meaning it burns calories at all times, even at rest (basal metabolic rate), which can contribute to the overall metabolic rate of an individual. In contrast, fat mass is less metabolically active.

Additionally, excess sugar in the body usually leads to an increase in fat mass through the storage of excess energy as fat (lipogenesis), rather than directly affecting muscle mass. And while muscle mass does require proteins and regular exercise for growth, fat mass increases when there is an excess of calories that are not utilized by the body for energy or muscle building.

Answer 2

The statement that identifies a difference between fat mass and muscle mass is C. Muscle mass is active during exercise, but fat mass is not.

Step-by-step explanation:

Muscle mass and fat mass play distinct roles in the body, and their activities differ, especially during periods of exercise or rest. The correct statement is C, where muscle mass is highlighted as being active during exercise. This is because muscles are actively engaged in movements, contractions, and energy expenditure during physical activity. On the other hand, fat mass is not actively involved in exercise; its primary function is energy storage, insulation, and cushioning.

During exercise, muscles require energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) for contraction. This energy is derived from various sources, including carbohydrates and fats. Muscle mass plays a crucial role in this process as it actively participates in the metabolic activities required for physical exertion. In contrast, fat mass, while contributing to overall energy reserves, is not directly involved in the dynamic processes of exercise.

Understanding the physiological differences between fat mass and muscle mass is essential for individuals pursuing fitness goals. Exercise regimes designed to enhance muscle mass involve targeted activities that stimulate muscle growth, such as resistance training. Meanwhile, managing fat mass often requires a combination of a balanced diet and calorie expenditure through physical activity. In conclusion, the difference in activity levels during exercise highlights the distinct roles of muscle mass and fat mass in the body's overall function.