Which of the following best describes micronutrients?

Micronutrients are defined as nutrients that are required by the body in small quantities, which is accurately captured by the correct response. These nutrients play crucial roles in various bodily functions, such as supporting the immune system, aiding in the production of enzymes and hormones, and facilitating proper cellular function. The term "micronutrients" specifically refers to vitamins and minerals, which are essential for overall health but are needed in much smaller amounts compared to macronutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

Understanding the roles of micronutrients can help highlight their importance despite being needed in lesser quantities. For example, while vitamins such as vitamin C and minerals like iron are crucial to health, they do not provide energy directly but help regulate metabolism and other essential processes.

In this context, the other descriptions do not accurately define micronutrients. Micronutrients are not nutrients needed in large quantities; that description applies to macronutrients. While the primary micronutrients are indeed vitamins and minerals, the definition is broader than just being "only" those components. Lastly, micronutrients are distinct from macronutrients, which are the nutrients that provide energy to the body and are required in larger amounts. Thus, the best description of micronutrients is that they are nutrients required in small