Uses of Glucose from Photosynthesis (AQA GCSE Biology): Revision Note

Uses of glucose in plants

• The glucose produced in photosynthesis may be:

  • used for respiration (both aerobic and anaerobic)

  • converted into insoluble starch for storage in the stems, leaves and roots

  • used to produce fat or oil for storage (especially in seeds)

  • used to produce cellulose, which strengthens the cell wall

  • combined with nitrate ions absorbed from the soil to produce amino acids for protein synthesis

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• The molecules produced by plants can be tested for using qualitative reagents, including:

  • iodine: tests for starch

  • Benedicts solution: tests for sugars

  • biurets solution: tests for protein