What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
phototrophic
Example
Algae are phototrophic organisms that use photosynthesis to produce energy. [phototrophic: adjective]
Example
The phototrophic bacteria in the ocean play a crucial role in the food chain. [phototrophic: adjective]
photoautotrophic
Example
Plants are photoautotrophic organisms that use photosynthesis to produce their own food. [photoautotrophic: adjective]
Example
Cyanobacteria are photoautotrophic bacteria that can fix nitrogen and produce oxygen through photosynthesis. [photoautotrophic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Photoautotrophic is a more specific term and is commonly used in biology and ecology, while phototrophic is a more general term used in various scientific fields.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between phototrophic and photoautotrophic?
Both phototrophic and photoautotrophic are technical terms used in scientific contexts and are considered formal language.
