Chemosynthesis

Chemosynthesis is the process of obtaining energy by some organisms through the oxidation of inorganic compounds. During chemosynthesis, energy is released during redox reactions of inorganic substances, such as hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, iron, nitrites, etc.

Chemosynthetic organisms use the resulting energy to synthesize ATP and organic substances from CO2. Chemosynthetic organisms include some bacteria and archaea. They can live in places without light, such as on the ocean floor near hydrothermal vents.

Chemosynthesis is of great importance in the global cycle of substances. Chemosynthesis products can serve as food for other organisms. In addition, billions of years ago, chemosynthetic bacteria created the Earth's oxygen-containing atmosphere. Thus, chemosynthesis played an important role in the emergence and evolution of life.