Define the term 'Body Mass Index'. Explain the method of its calculation.
Generated by claude-sonnet-4-6 · 2026-06-15 06:54 · grounding rag
Model Answer
Body Mass Index (BMI) is an indicator used to measure the nutritional status of a person. It shows whether a person is undernourished, normal, or overweight.
Method of Calculation:
BMI is calculated using the following formula:
$$BMI = \frac{\text{Weight (in kg)}}{\text{Height (in m)}^2}$$
A BMI below 18.5 kg/m² indicates that a person is undernourished or below normal nutritional status. It is used to compare the health and nutritional levels of populations across states or countries.
Source: Chapter 1, Income and Other Criteria / Human Development Report section
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Explanation
- The question is 3 marks, so keep it concise: define the term (1 mark) + give the formula (1 mark) + explain what it indicates (1 mark).
- The textbook uses BMI in the context of Table 1 (Q.13) referring to adults with BMI < 18.5 kg/m² as "below normal." Use this threshold in your answer.
- Always write the formula clearly; examiners award a specific mark for it.
- Do not confuse BMI with HDI or per capita income — BMI is strictly a health/nutritional indicator.