If one gram of each of the following were eaten as food, identify which would yield the most energy within the cell.

Answer & explanation:

When we refer to macronutrients, we talk about proteins, carbohydrates and lipids.

In a meal, carbohydrates are usually in greater quantity than proteins and fats, and are primarily used as fuel for metabolic processes.

Carbohydrates have on average 4 kcal per gram (or 17 kJ/g), proteins also have 4 kcal/g, but fats are approximately 9 kcal per gram (or 37 kJ/g).

Thus, fats have a higher energy charge compared to proteins and carbohydrates, although they are not primarily used as cellular fuel.