Final answer:
Chemotrophs are organisms that obtain their energy from inorganic molecules in areas without sunlight. They are vital for ecosystems as they provide energy to other organisms.
Step-by-step explanation:
Organisms that are capable of obtaining energy from inorganic molecules in areas where sunlight is unavailable are known as chemotrophs. They rely on chemical sources of energy to survive. Within the category of chemotrophs, if they also use organic compounds other than carbon dioxide for their carbon source, they would be classified as chemoorganotrophs.
These organisms are critical for ecosystems as they are able to synthesize their own food and provide energy to other organisms. Without chemotrophs, life would not be possible as energy would not be available to other living organisms.
Keywords: chemotrophs, chemoorganotrophs, energy, inorganic molecules, sunlight, organic compounds, ecosystems