________Blank is the rate at which food is converted to energy and expended by the body.Multiple ChoiceNeutralizationPhagocytosisMetabolismEmulsification

The correct answer is Metabolism.

Explanation:

Metabolism refers to the biochemical processes that occur within a living organism to maintain life, which includes the conversion of food into energy. It encompasses both the processes of catabolism, where molecules are broken down to obtain energy, and anabolism, where energy is used to construct components of cells such as proteins and nucleic acids.

In contrast:

• Neutralization is a chemical reaction between an acid and a base.
• Phagocytosis is the process by which cells engulf and digest particles or pathogens.
• Emulsification refers to the process of mixing two immiscible liquids, like oil and water, often aided by an emulsifier.

Thus, metabolism is the appropriate term that encapsulates the conversion of food to energy in the body.