Question

During the ripening of fruits, which gas acts as a natural ripening hormone?

• A. Oxygen
• B. Carbon dioxide
• C. Ethylene
• D. Nitrogen

Hint:

Fruits like bananas are often artificially ripened by exposing them to ethylene gas in controlled environments.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: Fruit ripening is a complex physiological and biochemical process involving changes in color, texture, flavor, and aroma. This process is regulated by plant hormones, among which ethylene plays a crucial role. Ethylene is a gaseous plant hormone that:

• Accelerates ripening in climacteric fruits (e.g., bananas, apples, tomatoes)
• Promotes conversion of starch into sugars
• Causes softening of fruits by breaking down cell walls
• Enhances development of flavor and aroma compounds

Step 1: Identify the role of gases in ripening.
Among common gases, only ethylene functions as a natural plant hormone involved in ripening.
Step 2: Analyze the given options.

• Oxygen – required for respiration, not a ripening hormone
• Carbon dioxide – involved in respiration and storage control
• Ethylene – natural ripening hormone
• Nitrogen – inert gas, no role in ripening

Step 3: Select the correct gas.
Ethylene is the correct answer as it directly regulates and accelerates fruit ripening.