4.1.3 Uses of glucose from photosynthesis

• Describe the uses of glucose produced in photosynthesis

  1. Used for respiration → to release energy

  2. Converted into insoluble starch → for storage

  3. Used to produce fat / oil (lipids) → for energy storage

  4. Used to produce cellulose → strengthen cell wall

  5. Used to produce amino acids → for protein synthesis

  ● Combined with nitrate ions from soil to form amino acids
• why is this statement wrong “Glucose is used for growth.”

  It is, but this is too vague. Use the acronym ‘SCARF’ to remember the specific uses

  of glucose - starch, cellulose, amino acids, respiration, fats (and oils)
• Explain why a leaf left in a cupboard

  with no light for 2 days did contain

  glucose but did not contain starch. (3)

  ● Starch has been converted to glucose

  ● So glucose can be used for respiration / to release energy

  ● As no light to make glucose by photosynthesis
• TMV can cause plants to produce less

  chlorophyll. Explain why plants with

  TMV have stunted growth. (4)

  ● Lack of chlorophyll reduces photosynthesis

  ● So less glucose made

  ● Glucose needed for respiration

  ● So less energy released for growth

  ● Glucose needed for making amino acids / proteins / cellulose

  ● So less amino acids / proteins / cellulose for growth