Autotrophically is a term that is frequently used in the field of biology. It is a term that is used to describe organisms that are able to produce their own food through the process of photosynthesis. This article will delve into the definition and meaning of autotrophically, as well as its origins, associations, synonyms, and antonyms.
Definitions
Autotrophically is an adverb that describes the process by which an organism is able to produce its own food. This is typically done through the process of photosynthesis, which involves using energy from sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. Autotrophically can also refer to the ability of an organism to produce its own food through other means, such as chemosynthesis.
Origin
The term autotrophically is derived from the Greek words “auto,” meaning “self,” and “trophos,” meaning “feeder.” The term was first used in the late 19th century by German botanist Albert Bernhard Frank to describe the ability of plants to produce their own food through photosynthesis.
Meaning in different dictionaries
In the Merriam-Webster dictionary, autotrophically is defined as “in an autotrophic manner.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “in a way that relates to or involves autotrophy.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “in a manner characteristic of autotrophs.”
Associations
Autotrophically is typically associated with organisms that are able to produce their own food through photosynthesis. This includes plants, algae, and some bacteria. Autotrophically is also associated with the concept of primary productivity, which refers to the rate at which autotrophic organisms convert energy from the sun into organic matter.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of autotrophically include self-sufficiently, self-reliantly, and independently.
Antonyms
Antonyms of autotrophically include heterotrophically, which refers to organisms that are unable to produce their own food and must obtain nutrients from other sources.
The same root words
The same root words as autotrophically include autotroph, which refers to an organism that is able to produce its own food, and trophic, which refers to the relationship between organisms and their environment.
Example Sentences
- Plants are able to produce their own food autotrophically through the process of photosynthesis.
- Some bacteria are able to produce their own food autotrophically through the process of chemosynthesis.
- Autotrophically-produced organic matter forms the base of the food chain in many ecosystems.