Question

Which of the following characteristics differentiates an autotroph from a heterotroph?

Answer 1

Living things are classified as either an autotroph or a heterotroph. An autotroph can produce its own food from the substances which are directly available in the surrounding. Heterotrophs are not capable and are dependent on the produce of the autotrophs for food.  

Good luck!

Answer 2

Answer:

A heterotroph is dependent on autotroph or other heterotroph for its energy whereas Autotrophs are dependent on Sun for their energy.

Explanation:

Based upon the nutrition mode, the living organisms are classified as autotrophs and heterotrophs. The organism which has the ability to prepare its own food are called heterotrophs, whereas the organism which is dependent on autotrophs and other animals are called as heterotrophs.

Basically plant are called as autotrophs as they prepare their own food with help of sunlight, and water due to the presence of chlorophyll by process called photosynthesis.  

Animals and human beings are called as heterotrophs as they don't have ability to prepare their own food and in turn is dependent on plant and other animals.