Autotrophs are organisms that can produce their own food using light, water, carbon dioxide, or other chemicals. They are the producers in an ecosystem. They use inorganic sources, like CO₂, to synthesize organic compounds. Photosynthesis is the most common form of energy production for autotrophs, using sunlight to convert CO₂ and water into glucose. Chemosynthesis is another process used by some autotrophs, utilizing energy from chemical reactions.