One practical application derived from the principal functions of plant hormones is the use of ethylene as a ripening agent for fruits. Ethylene is a gaseous plant hormone that plays a crucial role in the ripening process of fruits.
When fruits reach their optimal maturity, they naturally start producing ethylene, which triggers a series of physiological changes that lead to ripening. These changes include softening of the fruit, conversion of starches into sugars, color changes, and aroma production. Ethylene also accelerates the process of fruit senescence and decay.
Based on this understanding, the agricultural industry has harnessed the power of ethylene to control and enhance the ripening process for commercial purposes. One common application is the controlled ripening of fruits during transportation and storage. By exposing unripe fruits to ethylene gas, they can be induced to ripen uniformly and at a desired pace. This is particularly useful for fruits that are harvested before reaching full ripeness, allowing producers to prolong the shelf life of the produce and still provide consumers with ripe fruits.
Another relevant application is the use of ethylene in the post-harvest industry. Fruits that are harvested premature for long-distance transportation can be ripened upon arrival at their destination by exposing them to ethylene. This reduces the risk of spoilage during transportation and ensures that the fruits are in an optimal state for sale when they reach the market.
Additionally, ethylene can be used to synchronize the ripening of large quantities of fruits for production purposes. For example, in the production of canned fruits or fruit-based products, it is important to have a consistent supply of uniformly ripened fruits. By treating a batch of unripe fruits with ethylene, they can be quickly and efficiently ripened simultaneously, allowing for seamless processing and production.
Overall, the practical application of ethylene as a ripening agent for fruits allows for better control over the ripening process, extending the shelf life of produce, and ensuring consistency in quality and timing for the agricultural and post-harvest industries.
What practical applications are derived from the principal
functions of plant hormones? Discuss any one such
application.
1 answer