The molecules that an organism uses as its carbon source for generating biomass are referred to as "carbon sources" in biology. It is possible for organic or inorganic sources of carbon. Heterotrophs must use organic molecules as both are a source of carbon and energy, in contrast to autotrophs, which can use inorganic materials as both a source of carbon and an abiotic source of energy, such as, for instance, inorganic chemical energy or light (photoautotrophs) (chemolithotrophs). The carbon cycle, which begins with a carbon source that is inorganic, such as carbon dioxide and progresses through the carbon fixation process, includes the biological use of carbon as one of its components.[1] Sources of carbon Any place where carbon is produced, whether naturally or artificially, as well as any chemical molecules made of carbon, such carbon dioxide and methane, are considered carbon sources. Carbon comes from a variety of sources, such as fossil fuel combustion, wildfires, animal respiration, and plant deterioration. such resources come from across the world, albeit some might produce more than others. Plastics are an additional, more and more common source of carbon. Plastics, and Microplastics are not exclusively produced using fossil fuels. (And hence from carbon itself), but they're also When measuring environmental carbon pollution, substantial manmade carbon producers are typically ignored. However, as plastic breaks down, carbon is released into the air, water, and soil. Types of carbon source Autotrophs An organism is said to be an autotroph or primary producer if it uses carbon from uncomplicated components like making complicated organic molecules using carbon dioxide (like carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins). Inorganic chemical processes or photosynthesis are often needed to power this activity (chemosynthesis). They convert energy from an abiotic source, such light, into energy that may be used by other species by storing it in organic compounds (e.g., heterotrophs). The producers in a food chain are referred to as autotrophs because they don't need a live source of carbon or energy, like land plants or aquatic algae (As opposed to heterotrophs, which are consumers of other heterotrophs or autotrophs.) (2) Heterotrophs An organism is referred to as a heterotroph if it consumes other plants or animals for food and energy. Its origins are in the Greek words hetero, which means "other," and trope, which means "nutrition." Types Organotrophs and lithotrophs are two types of heterotrophs. Reduced carbon molecules, including as proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates from