Question

The cut flowers and vegetables can be kept fresh a long period by this plant hormone __________
A. Gibberellins
B. Cytokinins
C. Auxins
D. Ethylene
E. 2,4 - dichloro phenoxy acetic acid

Answer 1

Hint: A plant hormone that delays the process of senescence would be helpful in increasing the shelf life of food items like vegetables and fruits.

Complete answer: Cytokinin is essentially known to delay senescence by retarding the rate of destruction and degeneration of chlorophyll molecules and proteins among its various other physiological functions.
This process is known as the 'Richmond Lang effect'.
This effect was named after the scientists who discovered it in the year 1967 - Richmond & Lang.
This effect delays the rate of the yellowing of the green leaves and hence keeping it active longer.

Therefore, the correct answer is option B. Cytokinins.

Note: Additionally, cytokinin also helps to prevent excessive nutrient immobilization which helps to keep the plant parts fresh.