Step 1: Concept
Plant hormones (phytohormones) are signal molecules that regulate various aspects of plant growth and development.
Step 2: Meaning
Fruit ripening involves a series of physiological changes such as softening, sweetening, and color changes, often triggered by gaseous signals.
Step 3: Analysis
Auxins, Gibberellins, and Cytokinins are primarily associated with growth and cell division. Ethylene is a gaseous hormone specifically known for inducing ripening and senescence.
Step 4: Conclusion
Ethylene is the primary hormone responsible for the ripening process in climacteric fruits.
Final Answer: (D)