National 5BiologySQARevision NotesUnit 3: Life on EarthPhotosynthesisUsing the Products of Photosynthesis

Using the Products of Photosynthesis (SQA National 5 Biology): Revision Note

Exam code: X807 75

Written by: Naomi Holyoak

Reviewed by: Lára Marie McIvor

Updated on 2 July 2026

Uses of sugars from photosynthesis

The sugar produced during photosynthesis can be used in respiration, releasing energy for the plant
- The sugar produced during photosynthesis is glucose
Sugar can also be converted to other carbon-compounds, e.g.:
- starch for storage in plants
- cellulose, which has a structural role in cell walls
- amino acids
- lipids

Flowchart showing glucose use in plants: conversion to starch, cellulose, respiration, sucrose, fats, oils, and proteins with nitrates for energy and structure. — **The sugar produced during photosynthesis can be used in respiration or converted to other molecules**

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Author: Naomi Holyoak

Expertise: Biology Content Creator

Naomi graduated from the University of Oxford with a degree in Biological Sciences. She has 8 years of classroom experience teaching Key Stage 3 up to A-Level biology, and is currently a tutor and A-Level examiner. Naomi especially enjoys creating resources that enable students to build a solid understanding of subject content, while also connecting their knowledge with biology’s exciting, real-world applications.

Reviewer: Lára Marie McIvor

Expertise: Content Creator

Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.