What processes do autotrophs use to create organic material?

Autotrophs are organisms capable of producing their own organic material from inorganic substances. The primary processes they use for this purpose are photosynthesis and chemosynthesis.

Photosynthesis is the process utilized by plants, algae, and some bacteria, where they convert light energy, usually from the sun, into chemical energy stored in glucose. During photosynthesis, autotrophs take in carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and water from their surroundings, using chlorophyll to capture sunlight. The reaction produces glucose and oxygen as byproducts.

Chemosynthesis is employed by some bacteria and archaea, particularly those in environments lacking sunlight, such as deep-sea hydrothermal vents. These organisms derive energy from chemical reactions involving inorganic molecules (like hydrogen sulfide or methane) to convert carbon dioxide into organic material.

Both of these processes allow autotrophs to harness energy from their environment and synthesize essential organic compounds necessary for growth and maintenance, which serves as the foundation for ecosystems by supporting herbivores and subsequently carnivores.