Question

Which of the following is not a major nutrient for the body?
A) Calcium
B) Phosphorus
C) Sodium
D) Silicon

Answer 1

Hint: Nutrients are food-based elements that provide us with energy. Nutrients are known as the building blocks for repair and development, and the substances that help maintain and regulate chemical processes.

Complete answer:
A nutrient is a compound that an organism consumes in order to survive, to develop, and to reproduce. Carbohydrates, Lipids (fats), Proteins, Vitamins, Minerals, and Water are the six main nutrients required for the human body.

Major nutrients also known as Macronutrients are the nutrients that organisms need in large amounts for growth and production. They are known as micronutrients because they are needed in large amounts. Calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and magnesium are the five major minerals or nutrients found in the human body.

Trace elements or minor nutrients refer to the residual elements in a human body. Minor nutrients also known as Micronutrients are the nutrients that organisms need in small amounts as compared to the macronutrients. They are known as micronutrients because they are needed in small amounts. Sulfur, iron, chlorine, cobalt, copper, zinc, manganese, molybdenum, iodine, and selenium are the trace elements found in the human body.We can conclude that silicon is not a major nutrient for the human body.

Therefore, the correct option is (D) Silicon.

Note: Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium are the three most significant macronutrients. Nitrogen is essential for plant growth since it is involved in energy metabolism and protein synthesis. The plant consumes nitrogen in the form of nitrate. Plant development is strongly linked to this macronutrient.