What process do autotrophs undergo to create their own food? photosynthesis cellular respiration

Autotrophs, like plants, use a magical process called photosynthesis to create their own food. They absorb sunlight using chlorophyll in their leaves and combine it with carbon dioxide from the air and water from the soil. This fascinating reaction transforms these ingredients into glucose, a type of sugar that provides energy, while producing oxygen as a fantastic byproduct, which they release back into the atmosphere! But that's not the end of the story! After creating glucose through photosynthesis, autotrophs convert it into usable energy through cellular respiration. This occurs in their cells where the glucose is broken down with oxygen to release energy, water, and carbon dioxide. Think of it as a two-part dance: one moment they’re soaking up the sun, and the next, they’re turning that sunshine into power!