Question

Explain why a heterotrophic organism may require vitamins, whereas an autotroph does not.

Short answer

Autotrophic organisms do not require vitamins since they can synthesize them, but heterotrophic organisms cannot.

Step-by-step solution

Definition of Vitamin

Vitamin is one of the most important organic substances required by organisms for growth and maintenance.

Step 2: Heterotrophic organism may require vitamins

Autotrophs cannot consume vitamins from outside sources since they synthesize all the chemicals they require. On the other hand, heterotrophs get food from external sources, which has allowed them to adapt so they don't have to use energy for vitamin synthesis.

Hence, autotrophs do not require vitamins.