Chapter U5.101, Problem 1TAI

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The measurement of food calories is to be explained.

Concept introduction: Foods are sources of energy and certain foods are better source of energy. Our body processes the food we eat to generate energy. Burning two foods and comparing the energy transfer that results is a way to measure the energy of each food.

Answer to Problem 1TAI

Bomb calorimeter measures the calories in food.

Explanation of Solution

There are different ways to compare the energy transferred when food reacts with oxygen, as it does in the overall digestion process. Some foods can be burned and then their energies can be measured and compared. The science to measure the energy released or absorbed in a physical or chemical change is calorimetry. An instrument namely, bomb calorimeter is used to measure the heat energy transferred to surroundings in a combustion reaction.

Conclusion

Calorimetry helps us to measure the food calories.