What distinguishes autotrophs from heterotrophs?

Autotrophs are organisms that have the ability to synthesize their own food using inorganic substances and an external energy source, typically sunlight, through processes such as photosynthesis or chemosynthesis. This characteristic is a fundamental distinction as it means they can create their own organic molecules necessary for growth and energy from simple inorganic materials.

In contrast, heterotrophs depend on other organisms (either plants or animals) for sustenance, as they cannot produce their own food. Instead, they obtain energy and organic compounds by consuming the biomass of other organisms. This reliance on other living things for energy and nutrition clearly sets them apart from autotrophs.

Thus, option B accurately captures this distinction by highlighting that autotrophs produce their own food while heterotrophs rely on consuming other organisms for their energy needs.