Final answer:
Hydrothermal vents are fissures on the sea floor that release superheated water filled with minerals of metal sulfide. They provide a rich source of chemical energy and support diverse ecosystems.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hydrothermal vents are fissures on the sea floor that release superheated water filled with minerals of metal sulfide. These vents represent a rich source of chemical energy and act as drivers for the evolution of microorganisms that can tolerate high temperatures. Bacteria feeding on this chemical energy form the base of a food chain, supporting thriving communities of animals.