Autotrophic is a term that is commonly used in the field of biology. It refers to organisms that have the ability to produce their own food using inorganic substances. This article will explore the definition, origin, meaning in different dictionaries, associations, synonyms, antonyms, root words, and example sentences of autotrophic.
Definitions
Autotrophic is defined as the ability of an organism to produce its own food using inorganic substances such as carbon dioxide, water, and sunlight. This process is known as photosynthesis and is carried out by plants, algae, and some bacteria. Autotrophs are also known as producers as they are the primary source of food for all other living organisms.
Origin
The term autotrophic comes from the Greek words “autos” meaning self and “trophe” meaning nourishment. It was first used in the early 20th century to describe the ability of plants to produce their own food through photosynthesis.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, autotrophic is defined as “able to synthesize organic substances from simple inorganic substances.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “able to produce its own food using inorganic substances.”
Associations
Autotrophic is closely associated with photosynthesis, as it is the process by which autotrophs produce their own food. It is also associated with the food chain, as autotrophs are the primary producers and form the base of the food chain.
Synonyms
Synonyms of autotrophic include self-feeding, self-nourishing, self-sustaining, and self-sufficient.
Antonyms
Antonyms of autotrophic include heterotrophic, which refers to organisms that cannot produce their own food and must obtain it from other sources.
The same root words
Autotrophic shares the same root words with other scientific terms such as autotroph, which refers to an organism that produces its own food, and autotrophism, which refers to the process of producing one’s own food.
Example Sentences
- Plants are autotrophic organisms that produce their own food through photosynthesis.
- Algae are also autotrophic and form the base of the aquatic food chain.
- Autotrophic bacteria can be found in extreme environments such as hot springs and deep-sea vents.
- Heterotrophic organisms, such as animals, rely on autotrophs for their food supply.
- Autotrophic organisms play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems.