1. **State the problem:** We are given the formula for Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) for an adult man: $$\text{BMR} = 13.4w + 4.8h - 5.7a + 88.4$$ where $w$ is weight in kilograms, $h$ is height in centimeters, and $a$ is age in years. We need to answer three questions: (a) Identify the independent variables. (b) Identify the dependent variable. (c) Calculate the BMR for a man with $w=74$, $h=180$, and $a=29$. 2. **Explain variables:** - Independent variables are inputs or factors that affect the outcome. Here, $w$, $h$, and $a$ are independent variables because they are inputs to the formula. - Dependent variable is the output or result that depends on the independent variables. Here, BMR depends on $w$, $h$, and $a$. 3. **Answer (a):** The independent variables are $a$, $h$, and $w$. 4. **Answer (b):** The dependent variable is BMR. 5. **Answer (c): Calculate BMR:** Substitute $w=74$, $h=180$, and $a=29$ into the formula: $$\text{BMR} = 13.4(74) + 4.8(180) - 5.7(29) + 88.4$$ Calculate each term: $$13.4 \times 74 = 991.6$$ $$4.8 \times 180 = 864$$ $$5.7 \times 29 = 165.3$$ Now sum: $$\text{BMR} = 991.6 + 864 - 165.3 + 88.4 = 1778.7$$ Rounded to the nearest whole number: $$\boxed{1779}$$ kilocalories. **Final answers:** (a) Independent variables: $a$, $h$, $w$ (b) Dependent variable: BMR (c) BMR for given values: 1779 kilocalories