Overview
Chemosynthesis is a vital biological process that allows certain organisms to convert inorganic compounds into organic matter, using energy derived from chemical reactions rather than sunlight. This process is essential for life in extreme environments, such as deep-sea hydrothermal vents, where sun...
Key Terms
Example: Certain bacteria in deep-sea vents use chemosynthesis to produce food.
Example: Hydrogen sulfide is an inorganic compound used by some chemosynthetic bacteria.
Example: Microbial life in hydrothermal vents relies on chemosynthesis for energy.
Example: The deep-sea ecosystem is home to chemosynthetic organisms.
Example: Plants use photosynthesis to create food from sunlight.
Example: Hydrothermal vents are rich in chemosynthetic bacteria.
Related Topics
Photosynthesis
The process by which plants convert sunlight into energy, contrasting with chemosynthesis.
beginnerMicrobial Ecology
The study of microorganisms in their natural environments, including their roles in ecosystems.
intermediateAstrobiology
The study of life in the universe, including the potential for chemosynthesis on other planets.
advancedKey Concepts
Energy conversionInorganic compoundsMicrobial lifeEcosystem roles