Ethylene Gas (C₂H₄) Is A Naturally Occurring Plant Hormone That Plays A Crucial Role In The Growth, Development, And Ripening Of Plants. Here Are Some Key Points About Ethylene Gas:
Natural Plant Hormone: Ethylene Is Produced By Plants In Response To Various Stimuli Such As Stress, Aging, And Certain Environmental Conditions.
Role In Ripening: One Of The Major Roles Of Ethylene Is In The Ripening Of Fruits. It Triggers Processes That Lead To The Softening, Color Changes, And Flavor Development Associated With Ripening.
Senescence And Abscission: Ethylene Also Promotes Senescence (aging) Of Flowers And Leaves, And It Plays A Role In The Abscission (shedding) Of Leaves And Fruits.
Environmental Effects: Ethylene Is Also Produced By Certain Microorganisms And Is Found In Vehicle Exhaust And Cigarette Smoke. High Concentrations Of Ethylene Can Sometimes Cause Premature Ripening Or Senescence In Plants.
Commercial Uses: Ethylene Is Widely Used In Agriculture And Horticulture For Purposes Such As Accelerating Ripening Of Fruits, Promoting Flower Induction, And Controlling Fruit And Flower Drop.
Synthetic Ethylene: Ethylene Gas Can Be Produced Synthetically For Industrial Purposes, Such As In The Production Of Plastics And As A Chemical Intermediate.
Regulation And Control: Due To Its Effects On Plant Physiology, Ethylene Levels Are Carefully Regulated In Controlled Atmosphere Storage Of Fruits And Vegetables To Extend Shelf Life.
Understanding Ethylene Gas Is Crucial In Agricultural Practices, Especially In Managing Post-harvest Physiology And In The Regulation Of Fruit And Flower Development.