What is the formula for calculating Body Mass Index (BMI)?

The formula for calculating Body Mass Index (BMI) is indeed based on the weight and height of an individual. Specifically, it is calculated by taking the weight in kilograms and dividing it by the height in meters squared. This means that the correct formula is:

BMI = weight (kg) / height (m)^2

This formula is utilized because BMI is a measure that provides an estimate of body fat based on weight relative to height. It allows for standardization across different individuals and helps to categorize weight status (underweight, normal, overweight, and obese) according to established benchmarks.

Using weight and height squared is critical, as it accounts for the fact that as height increases, the expected weight does not increase linearly but rather in a manner related to the square of height. This relationship helps in interpreting BMI values correctly across different populations. The other options do not adhere to this recognized standard for calculating BMI, which is why they do not apply.