Question

Which hormone is responsible for fruit ripening?
(a) Ethylene
(b) Auxin
(c) Ethyl Chloride
(d) Cytokinin

Answer 1

Hint: Fruit is the result of angiosperm plants which are also known as flowering plants. They are seed-bearing structures which are formed from the ovary after the flowering. Fruits can vary in taste and some of them are edible.

Complete answer:
Ethylene is a hormone responsible for fruit ripening. Ethylene is a gaseous plant hormone. It acts as a growth inhibitor. Its main functions include maturation and ripening of fruits. During the ripening of fruits, the synthesis of ethylene occurs in maximum concentration. Ethylene is responsible for various processes which includes respiration, change of colour, texture and aroma etc. The freshness in the horticulture and fruits is provided through ethylene. The elongation of shoot and root of the plant is through the help of ethylene.

Additional information:
Auxin:Plant hormones can be defined as organic molecules that are produced in plants that help in regulating the growth and development of plant parts. These molecules control morphological, physiological, and biochemical responses in different parts of the plant. Auxin functions include inducing cell elongation, maintaining apical dominance, initiating root formation, preventing abscission, inducing parthenocarpy, and is also used as a herbicide in synthetic forms.
Ethyl chloride: It is used to produce tetraethyl lead which is known as a gasoline additive and is a colourless flammable gas commonly known as refrigerated liquid which consists of a faintly sweet odor.
Cytokinin: Cytokinin can be described as a plant hormone. The term apical dominance can be defined as the suppression of growth of lateral buds by the auxins produced by the apical buds. It promotes apical dominance which means that it does not allow lateral/axillary buds to grow in the plant whereas on the other hand a hormone named as cytokinin is responsible for hurting the apical dominance. It promotes the growth of lateral buds.

So, the correct answer is 'Ethylene'.

Note:
A ripened fruit and a fruit ripened naturally have no physiological difference where they used ethylene in the rooms for ripening for the activation process. Ethylene acquires the highest penetration power which can penetrate a cardboard box and wood.