which of the following basic nutrients does not contain any calories? a. protein b. carbohydrates c. water d. fat

The basic nutrient that does not contain any calories is c. water.

Why water has zero calories

• Pure water is just H₂O, with no protein, carbohydrates, or fat, so it provides 0 calories.

• Even when it is hot, cold, frozen, or carbonated (without added sugar), water still contains no calories.

What the other nutrients contain

• Protein provides about 4 calories per gram.

• Carbohydrates also provide about 4 calories per gram.

• Fat is more energy-dense, at about 9 calories per gram.

So, among protein, carbohydrates, water, and fat, only water is calorie- free.

Answer: c. water ✅