What is the process called where organisms use chemical energy to produce carbohydrates?

The process where organisms use chemical energy to produce carbohydrates is known as chemosynthesis. This process occurs in certain types of bacteria and archaea, particularly those living in environments devoid of sunlight, such as deep-sea vents, where they obtain energy by oxidizing inorganic substances, typically sulfides or ammonia.

Through chemosynthesis, these organisms convert carbon dioxide and water into organic compounds, primarily carbohydrates, using the energy derived from chemical reactions rather than from sunlight, as in photosynthesis. This ability allows chemosynthetic organisms to thrive in extreme environments, contributing significantly to the ecosystem by forming the base of the food chain in those habitats.

In contrast, photosynthesis involves capturing light energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into carbohydrates, which is characteristic of plants, algae, and some bacteria, but not applicable to organisms relying on chemical energy. Respiration and aerobic metabolism generally refer to processes where energy stored in organic molecules is broken down to produce energy, rather than the synthesis of carbohydrates.