autotroph

Definition

An organism capable of synthesizing its own nutritional substances, such as food or energy, from inorganic sources like light or chemicals.

Etymology

The word is derived from the Greek 'autos' meaning 'self' and 'trophē' meaning 'nourishment.' It entered English to describe organisms that provide their own sustenance rather than consuming others.

In the news

The term appeared in the article as a suggested follow-up topic for further scientific learning. It represents a fundamental biological concept distinct from the featured article's focus on space science.

Science word of the day: Heliosphere

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