Photosynthetic organisms use energy from the sun to make glucose.
Where does photosynthesis happen and why?
Chloroplasts. Photosynthesis occurs in chloroplasts because they contain chlorophyll, the pigment that captures light energy for the process. They also contain enzymes that catalyse the reaction of phtotsynthesis.
What are the five ways plants use glucose produced in photosynthesis?
Respiration - releases energy from glucose
Making cellulose - needed for strong cell walls
Making proteins - glucose and nitrate ions form aminoacids which are converted into proteins
Stored as oils or fats
Stored as starch
Describe a test for starch.
dunk a leaf into boiling water (denatures enzymes in leaf to stop chemical reactions
put leaf in boiling tube with ethanol and heat gently ( removes chlorophyll)
rinse leaf in cool water
add a few drops of iodine (blue/black means starch is present)
