Question

Which combination of gases is suitable for fruit ripening?
(А) 80% ${C_2}{H_4}$ and 20% $C{O_2}$
(B) 80% $C{O_2}$ and 20% $C{H_2}$
(C) 80% $C{H_4}$ and 20% $C{O_2}$
(D) 80% $C{O_2}$ , and 20% ${O_2}$

Answer 1

Fruit ripening is the process of conversion of starch present in the fruit to sugars. By ripening of fruit, they end up sweeter, less green, commonly redder and softer due to the fact they ripen. Due to the ripening of fruit, the acidity of fruit increases. The fruit does now not appear tarter due to the higher acidity.

Complete answer:
Ethylene is a gaseous hormone in plants. It is also recognised as the ripening hormone. To accelerate the fruit ripening manner externally, the ethylene hormone is used. During the system of ripening, along with ethylene, a controlled quantity of oxygen and carbon dioxide is required.
Now let us find solution from given options :
Option A) 80% ${C_2}{H_4}$ and 20% $C{O_2}$ is used and utilized for the artificial ripening of fruits. The increased concentration of ethylene and reduced concentration of carbon dioxide triggers fruit ripening and metabolism.
Option B) A combination of 80% $C{O_2}$ and 20% $C{H_2}$ is utilised in the germination of lettuce seed. This combination does not support ripening of fruit.
Option C) A mixture of $C{H_4}$ and $C{O_2}$ is used as greenhouse gases. This has the capacity to trap heat within the troposphere. These are the major pollutants which are responsible for global warming.
Option D) ${O_2}$ and $C{O_2}$ is oxygen inhaled during respiration and carbon dioxide is exhaled. The higher concentration of carbon dioxide and lower oxygen is poisonous to health and can have fatal effects.
Hence the required answer is option ‘A’.
Note: Fruit ripening is a chemical change, in this technique the pigment existing in the pores and skin of the fruit modifications. The fruit not only becomes sweeter but also changes its colour. Ethylene hormone that is produced all through the ripening of fruit is necessary.