How do autotrophs obtain water for photosynthesis?

Autotrophs obtain water for photosynthesis primarily through their roots in terrestrial plants. Water is absorbed from the soil by the root system, transported through the plant’s vascular tissues (xylem), and delivered to the leaves, where photosynthesis predominantly occurs. Within the leaf cells, water molecules are split during the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis, releasing oxygen and providing electrons for the formation of energy-rich compounds. This process, known as photolysis, is vital for the production of oxygen and the synthesis of carbohydrates, supporting the energy needs of the autotrophic organism and contributing to the ecosystem’s oxygen balance.