Question

Which hormone helps in ripening of fruits?

• A. Auxins
• B. Cytokinins
• C. Gibberellins
• D. Ethylene

Hint:

Ethylene is the only gaseous plant hormone and is mainly associated with fruit ripening.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept: Plants produce special chemical substances known as plant hormones or phytohormones. These hormones regulate growth, development, flowering, fruit formation, and ripening. Different hormones perform different functions:
• Auxins $\rightarrow$ Cell elongation
• Cytokinins $\rightarrow$ Cell division
• Gibberellins $\rightarrow$ Stem growth
• Ethylene $\rightarrow$ Fruit ripening

Step 1: Identifying the hormone responsible for fruit ripening. The gaseous plant hormone responsible for ripening fruits is: \[ \boxed{\text{Ethylene}} \] Ethylene accelerates:
• Ripening of fruits
• Softening of tissues
• Development of color and aroma It is commonly used commercially to ripen fruits like bananas and mangoes.

Step 2: Understanding incorrect options.
• Option (1) Auxins: Promote cell elongation and root growth.
• Option (2) Cytokinins: Promote cell division.
• Option (3) Gibberellins: Promote stem elongation and seed germination. Thus, the correct answer is: \[ \boxed{(4)\ \text{Ethylene}} \]