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 ✅