Question

Compare and contrast autotrophs, heterotrophs, chemotrophs, and photoautotrophs.

A) Autotrophs are organisms that produce their own food, while heterotrophs rely on external sources. Chemotrophs use inorganic compounds, while photoautotrophs use light energy.
B) Autotrophs and heterotrophs both produce their own food, while chemotrophs and photoautotrophs are the same.
C) Autotrophs, heterotrophs, and chemotrophs are all the same. Photoautotrophs use light energy.
D) Autotrophs and heterotrophs rely on external sources, while chemotrophs use light energy, and photoautotrophs use inorganic compounds.

Answer 1

Autotrophs produce their own food, while heterotrophs depend on external sources. Photoautotrophs use light energy for photosynthesis, while chemoautotrophs use chemical bonds for energy.

Step-by-step explanation:

Autotrophs are organisms that produce their own food, while heterotrophs rely on external sources for food. Chemotrophs use inorganic compounds as an energy source, while photoautotrophs use light energy for photosynthesis.

Autotrophs are vital in ecosystems because they produce organic molecules from inorganic compounds, supporting other organisms. Photoautotrophs, such as plants and algae, use sunlight for photosynthesis, while chemoautotrophs, like certain bacteria, use chemical bonds for energy.