Which of the following nutrients is organic and provides energy?

The nutrient that is organic and provides energy is carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are one of the three macronutrients (alongside proteins and fats) and are primarily composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, which are characteristic of organic compounds. When consumed, carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, a simple sugar that serves as a primary energy source for the body’s cells.

In contrast, minerals and water are inorganic substances. Minerals are essential for a range of bodily functions, but they do not provide energy in the form of calories. Water is crucial for life and supports various physiological processes but does not contribute calories or energy. Vitamins, while organic, do not provide energy directly but instead assist in metabolic processes that convert carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into usable energy. This unique characteristic of carbohydrates makes them a vital energy source in nutrition.