Definition

Relating to or involving the process of chemosynthesis, where organisms create energy from chemical reactions instead of sunlight.

Example

Some bacteria are chemosynthetic, using chemicals from their environment to produce energy.

Conversation

Did you know that some organisms are chemosynthetic?

Really? I thought all plants needed sunlight to grow.

Nope, those chemosynthetic organisms use chemical reactions instead.

That's fascinating! Nature is full of surprises.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Chemosynthetic → It is formed from "chemo-" (from Greek "chēmeia", meaning chemistry or chemical) and "synthetic" (from Greek "synthesis", meaning putting together). The word describes a process that involves putting together or creating substances through chemical reactions, particularly in the context of organisms that produce food from inorganic compounds.

Memory Tip

Think of 'chemistry' ('chemo-') being used to 'put together' ('synthetic') substances, which helps you remember that 'chemosynthetic' refers to creating food through chemical processes.

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