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Multiple Choice
Which pair of statements best describes an essential amino acid?
A
It is only found in plant-based foods and is not present in animal proteins.
B
It cannot be synthesized by the human body and must be obtained from the diet.
C
It is used exclusively for energy production and not for protein synthesis.
D
It can be synthesized by the human body and is not required in the diet.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of essential amino acids. Essential amino acids are amino acids that cannot be synthesized by the human body and must be obtained through the diet.
Step 2: Evaluate the first statement: 'It is only found in plant-based foods and is not present in animal proteins.' This is incorrect because essential amino acids are found in both plant-based and animal-based foods.
Step 3: Evaluate the second statement: 'It cannot be synthesized by the human body and must be obtained from the diet.' This is correct and aligns with the definition of essential amino acids.
Step 4: Evaluate the third statement: 'It is used exclusively for energy production and not for protein synthesis.' This is incorrect because essential amino acids are primarily used for protein synthesis, although they can be used for energy production under certain conditions.
Step 5: Evaluate the fourth statement: 'It can be synthesized by the human body and is not required in the diet.' This is incorrect because this describes non-essential amino acids, not essential amino acids.