Autotrophic organisms are capable of:

Study for the NES Elementary Education Subtest 2 with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Autotrophic organisms are characterized by their ability to produce their own food using inorganic substances. Specifically, they harness energy from sunlight through a process known as photosynthesis, which enables them to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. This process is vital for the sustenance of various ecosystems, as autotrophs serve as the primary producers at the base of the food chain. By utilizing sunlight, these organisms create energy-rich organic compounds, which not only fuel their own growth and reproduction but also provide energy for heterotrophic organisms that consume them.

The other options do not accurately describe the fundamental characteristics of autotrophic organisms. For instance, eating other organisms is characteristic of heterotrophic organisms, while storing energy as fat and reproducing without energy are not defining traits of autotrophs. The ability to harness energy from sunlight distinguishes autotrophs and underscores their essential role in the Earth's energy dynamics.

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