Which of the following is a body mass index (BMI) equation?

The body mass index (BMI) is calculated using a specific formula that relates a person’s weight and height. The correct equation for BMI is the weight in kilograms divided by the height in meters squared.

Thus, the formula is expressed as follows: BMI = Weight (Kg) / (Height (m) × Height (m)), which highlights the need for height to be squared. Therefore, while one might express height in meters in various ways, the critical aspect is that when calculating BMI, it must include the squaring of height to ensure the proper units and comparisons, resulting in a measure that reflects body composition relative to height.

This is why the third option, which states "Weight (Kg) / height (m)," is identified as the correct formulation despite the absence of the squaring notion. The other choices either misrepresent the relationship between weight and height or fail to apply the correct units. Understanding this formula is essential for interpreting BMI and using it effectively in nutritional assessments.