American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test

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Prepare for the American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question includes explanations to enhance understanding. Boost your confidence and readiness for the exam!

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How many calories per gram does fat provide?

4 calories
9 calories
7 calories
5 calories

The correct answer is: 9 calories

Fat provides 9 calories per gram, making it a highly caloric macronutrient. This higher caloric density compared to carbohydrates and proteins, which each provide 4 calories per gram, is significant in nutritional science. The reason fat is so energy-rich has to do with its chemical structure, as fats (or lipids) contain long chains of carbon atoms which store more energy than the structures found in carbohydrates and proteins. This characteristic of fat makes it an important energy source, especially in long-term energy storage in the form of body fat. Understanding the caloric value of fat is crucial for dietary planning, weight management, and overall nutrition, especially in contexts where caloric intake needs to be balanced against physical activity levels or health conditions.