AUTOTROPH Meaning and
Definition
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An autotroph refers to an organism that is capable of synthesizing its own organic molecules and obtaining energy from inorganic sources. Autotrophs are self-sustaining entities in their ability to produce complex organic compounds, such as carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins, through the process of photosynthesis or chemosynthesis. Generally, autotrophs utilize sunlight, carbon dioxide, water, and various minerals to carry out these metabolic activities.
In the context of photosynthesis, autotrophs capture sunlight energy through specialized pigments, primarily chlorophyll, housed within their cellular structures. This energy is transformed into chemical energy, enabling autotrophs to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose, ultimately serving as a primary energy source for their growth and development.
Chemosynthetic autotrophs, on the other hand, derive their energy from inorganic chemical reactions, such as oxidation or reduction of compounds like sulfur or iron, instead of harnessing sunlight. These organisms typically thrive in harsh environments such as deep-sea hydrothermal vents or sulfur-rich hot springs, where sunlight is unavailable.
Autotrophs occupy a vital role in many ecosystems, serving as primary producers that support a multitude of other organisms. They form the foundation of the food chain, as heterotrophs rely on them for energy and nutrients. In addition, autotrophs play a significant role in regulating global carbon dioxide levels and maintaining the oxygen balance of the Earth.
Common Misspellings for AUTOTROPH
- zutotroph
- sutotroph
- wutotroph
- qutotroph
- aytotroph
- ahtotroph
- ajtotroph
- aitotroph
- a8totroph
- a7totroph
- aurotroph
- aufotroph
- augotroph
- auyotroph
- au6otroph
- au5otroph
- autitroph
- autktroph
- autltroph
- autoproph
- autotyope
- Autotropihm
- Autotropish
Etymology of AUTOTROPH
The word "autotroph" is derived from two Greek roots: "auto" meaning "self", and "troph" meaning "nourishment" or "feed". In Greek, "trophos" means "one who feeds". Therefore, "autotroph" literally translates to "self-feeder" or "self-nourisher". The term is used in biology to refer to organisms that can produce their own organic compounds and sustain themselves through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis, without relying on other sources for their nutrition.
Similar spelling words for AUTOTROPH
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