primary production
Pronunciation
Noun
B2 Upper-intermediate
Quick answer
The process by which plants, algae and some bacteria create organic matter from sunlight or chemical energy.
Usage notes
Ecologists distinguish "gross primary production," the total energy captured, from "net primary production," what's left after the organism's own respiration.
Test yourself
Which word fits the gap? "Phytoplankton are responsible for a huge share of the ocean's _____."
Answer: primary production
In your own words, what does "primary production" mean?
The process by which plants, algae and some bacteria create organic matter from sunlight or chemical energy.
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