Which is the Correct Distinction Between a Heterotroph and an Autotroph

Question

Which is the correct distinction between a heterotroph and an autotroph?
A)An autotroph utilizes organic compounds as a carbon source and a heterotroph uses carbon dioxide as a carbon source.
B)An autotroph utilizes carbon dioxide as a carbon source and a heterotroph utilizes organic compounds as a carbon source.
C)An autotroph utilizes complex organic compounds as a carbon source and a heterotroph utilizes simple organic compounds as a carbon source.
D)An autotroph utilizes carbon dioxide as an energy source and a heterotroph utilizes organic compounds as an energy source.
E)an autotroph utilizes organic compounds as an energy source and a heterotroph utilizes carbon dioxide as an energy source .

Accepted Answer

The correct distinction between a heterotroph and an autotroph is that an autotroph utilizes carbon dioxide as a carbon source and a heterotroph utilizes organic compounds as a carbon source. Autotrophs are able to produce their own food via photosynthesis or chemosynthesis, whereas heterotrophs must consume other organisms to obtain their nutrients.