The World's Most Important Chemical is Ethylene

 

 Ethylene

Agricultural production is determined by plant growth and development under varying environmental conditions. Plant organ growth, development, and senescence can affect crop yield by modulating photosynthesis, nutrient remobilization efficiency, and harvest index. Plant growth and yield have been shown to be increased by phytohormones. The phytohormone regulates plant growth and senescence. Ethylene is thought to be a multifunctional phytohormone that controls both growth and senescence. Depending on the concentration, timing of application, and plant species, it promotes or inhibits growth and senescence. The use of ethephon, an E-releasing compound, increased evolution and mustard leaf area at lower concentrations while inhibiting it at higher concentrations.

The global Ethylene Market was valued at US$ 107.65 billion and 146.6 million metric tons in 2016 and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 8.7% in terms of revenue and 5.3% in terms of volume during 2017 – 2025.

Ethylene is derived from the Greek word for "wine" and refers to the aroma of grapes ripening into wine. In the case of cannabis, It is a gas that the plant's leaves and flowers produce. This is a natural process that occurs to aid in the regulation of the plant's growth and development rate. When it levels are too high, the plant may develop buds too soon. If the level is too low, the plant may not reach its full potential.

Because of the wide-ranging effects on plants of agronomic and horticultural value, controlling E responses is a major commercial enterprise. Interestingly, depending on the species, developmental stage, and concentration, responses can be either harmful or beneficial. Too much ethylne, for example, can cause produce to spoil, as the saying goes, "one bad apple spoils the whole bunch." To prevent the spoilage of fruits, vegetables, and flowers during transport and storage, expensive methods are used.

Adsorbents and scrubbers are used to remove external, chemical inhibitors are used to prevent biosynthesis, and chemical inhibitors are used to prevent signal transduction. Blocking perception during crop growth can also prevent leaf and flower abscission and vegetable yellowing. In contrast, E is purposefully used in situations where responses are desired. Fruit ripening is typically induced pre- or post-harvest using e or ethephon, a commercial liquid formulation. Stephon is also used to induce flowering in pineapple plants and to prevent lodging in wheat plants.