Glucose
Science: KS3, topic 1.6.33
Glucose
Glucose is a sugar molecule. It is a simple carbohydrate and is classed as a monosaccharide.
Formula
- Glucose has the formula C₆H₁₂O₆.
- This means glucose contains:
- 6 carbon atoms
- 12 hydrogen atoms
- 6 oxygen atoms
Glucose in the body
- Glucose is a monosaccharide carbohydrate.
- Monosaccharides cannot be broken down into simpler sugars.
- Glucose is needed for energy in the body.
- Once in the blood, glucose is referred to as blood sugar.
- A hormone called insulin transports the glucose from the blood into the cells.
Chemical reactions
- Glucose is used in a chemical reaction called respiration.
- Both plants and animals respire.
- In respiration, animals turn oxygen and glucose into carbon dioxide and water.
- Plants use photosynthesis to create their energy.
- During photosynthesis, plants turn carbon dioxide and water into oxygen and glucose.
Test yourself on Glucose
What type of carbohydrate cannot be broken down into simpler sugars?
Select the true statement in each pair.
Photosynthesis turns carbon dioxide and water into oxygen and glucose. Respiration turns oxygen and glucose into carbon dioxide and water. How are these two processes related?
In respiration, animals turn oxygen and glucose into carbon dioxide and water. A scientist notices a cell producing more carbon dioxide than before. What is the most likely explanation?