Definition

Relating to organisms that can produce their own food using carbon dioxide and energy from light or inorganic substances.

Example

Plants are autotrophic because they can make their own food through photosynthesis.

Conversation

Did you know that some plants are autotrophic and can make their own food?

Yeah, I read that they use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide into energy.

It's fascinating how they don't need any external food source.

Exactly! They really show how nature is self-sufficient.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Autotrophic → It is formed from "auto-" (meaning self) and "trophic" (from Greek "trophikos", meaning nourishing or feeding). The word describes organisms that can produce their own food through processes like photosynthesis, thus nourishing themselves.

Memory Tip

Think of 'self' ('auto-') producing its own 'nourishment' ('trophic') — that's what autotrophic means.

Visually Confused Words