How do animals primarily acquire energy?

Animals primarily acquire energy by consuming plants and other animals. This process is known as heterotrophy, which means that animals rely on organic compounds from other living organisms to obtain their energy and nutrients. Through the act of eating, animals break down the complex organic materials found in their food, releasing energy that is then used for various bodily functions, growth, reproduction, and maintaining homeostasis.

In contrast, photosynthesis is a process used by plants and some other organisms to convert light energy into chemical energy, which they store in glucose. Respiration refers to the biochemical process of breaking down glucose to release energy, and while it is essential for energy transfer in both plants and animals, it does not represent the primary means of energy acquisition for animals themselves. Similarly, while soil can provide nutrients to plants, animals do not acquire energy directly from the soil. Thus, consuming plants and other animals is the foundational way through which animals obtain energy necessary for survival.