Final answer:
Prokaryotes that obtain their energy from chemical compounds are called chemotrophs. They can use organic or inorganic compounds as energy sources, and they are important for the carbon cycle.
Step-by-step explanation:
Prokaryotes that obtain their energy from chemical compounds are called chemotrophs. Chemotrophs can use organic compounds as energy sources and are classified into two types: chemoorganotrophs, which obtain energy from organic compounds, and chemolithotrophs, which obtain energy from inorganic compounds like sulfur or iron compounds. These prokaryotes play a vital role in the carbon cycle.