Evaluate the impact of autotrophs on the evolution of heterotrophs.

• A. Autotrophs provided a source of oxygen and organic compounds, enabling heterotrophs to evolve.
• B. Autotrophs competed with heterotrophs for resources, hindering their evolution.
• C. Autotrophs had no impact on the evolution of heterotrophs.
• D. Autotrophs evolved from heterotrophs, impacting their metabolic processes.

Answer: (A)