CHEMOSYNTHESIS Meaning and
Definition
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Chemosynthesis is a process utilized by certain organisms, particularly bacteria and some archaea, to produce organic compounds through the synthesis of energy-rich molecules from inorganic substances. Unlike photosynthesis, which relies on sunlight as the primary energy source, chemosynthesis harnesses the energy obtained from the oxidation or reduction of inorganic chemicals.
This metabolic process occurs in environments where light is absent or scarce, such as deep-sea hydrothermal vents, caves, and certain soil and marine ecosystems. One of the most recognized examples of chemosynthesis occurs at hydrothermal vents on the ocean floor, where chemosynthetic bacteria derive energy by oxidizing sulfur compounds or other chemicals present in the vent fluids. These bacteria convert the energy obtained from chemical reactions into organic matter that forms the basis of the vent ecosystem by supporting diverse chemoautotrophic organisms.
During chemosynthesis, the inorganic chemicals essential for energy production, known as reductants, are often derived from materials such as hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, methane, and iron compounds. The process typically involves utilizing enzymes to catalyze the conversion of these reductants into energy-rich organic compounds, often carbohydrates. Chemosynthesis is an energy-intensive process that allows certain organisms to survive in environments where photosynthesis is not feasible.
This extraordinary adaptation of certain organisms to obtain energy from chemical sources revolutionized our understanding of ecosystems and the potential for life in extreme and inhospitable environments. Chemosynthesis plays a crucial role in the carbon cycle, influencing the flow of energy and nutrients throughout various ecological systems.
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The formation of certain definite compounds by chemical action.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CHEMOSYNTHESIS
- xhemosynthesis
- vhemosynthesis
- fhemosynthesis
- dhemosynthesis
- cgemosynthesis
- cbemosynthesis
- cnemosynthesis
- cjemosynthesis
- cuemosynthesis
- cyemosynthesis
- chwmosynthesis
- chsmosynthesis
- chdmosynthesis
- chrmosynthesis
- ch4mosynthesis
- ch3mosynthesis
- chenosynthesis
- chekosynthesis
- chejosynthesis
- chemoesynthesis
- chemosynthessis
- chemoosynthesis
Etymology of CHEMOSYNTHESIS
The word chemosynthesis is derived from the combination of two Greek words: chemo, meaning chemical, and synthesis, meaning the process of combining elements to form a whole.
Similar spelling word for CHEMOSYNTHESIS
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