Y10 Biology - Uses of Glucose

Respiration

Plants use glucose in respiration to release energy for cell functions

Uses of glucose

(SCARF) starch, cellulose, amino acids, respiration, fats and oils,

Glucose + oxygen → carbon dioxide + water + energy (C₆H₁₂O₆ + O₂ → 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + energy)

Starch

Excess glucose is converted into starch for storage when photosynthesis is not occurring

Why starch

Starch is insoluble so it does not affect water balance of cells and can be used in respiration at night or in winter

Cellulose

Glucose is used to make cellulose, a polymer that forms strong rigid cell walls giving plants support and structure

Amino acids and proteins

Glucose combines with nitrate ions from the soil to form amino acids which are used to make proteins for growth and repair of cells

Fats and oils

Some glucose is converted into lipids (fats and oils) for energy storage in seeds and for growth

Nitrate ions

Absorbed from the soil and used with glucose to make amino acids and proteins

Starch storage advantage

Starch is insoluble so does not draw water into cells by osmosis and is compact for storage

Glucose storage forms

Stored as starch or converted into fats and oils

Aerobic respiration

Process by which plants break down glucose to transfer energy to cells

Photosynthesis

Produces glucose used for respiration, storage, cell walls, proteins and lipids

Energy use

Respiration provides energy for active transport, cell division and growth

Adaptation summary

Plants use glucose efficiently for energy, storage, structure and biosynthesis through respiration, starch formation, cellulose production, protein synthesis and lipid storage