Ethene Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Science

• This gas plays a key role in the ripening process of fruits, prompting them to become sweeter and softer as they mature.
• Ethylene is a natural plant hormone that helps regulate their growth and responses to environmental changes.
• It is produced by burning fossil fuels, making it significant in both natural and man-made processes.

Agriculture

• Farmers sometimes use ethylene to help accelerate the ripening of crops like bananas and tomatoes for better market timing.
• Controlled exposure to this gas can reduce spoilage and waste in fruit and vegetable transport.
• Ethylene gas is beneficial in postharvest technology, helping ensure freshness and quality for consumers.

Pop Culture

• Ethylene gas has been featured in science fiction, representing futuristic agricultural technologies in movies and books.
• In popular gardening circles, knowing about ethylene can empower hobbyists to better manage their plants' growth.
• Several culinary shows highlight the importance of ethylene by demonstrating how fruit ripening affects flavor and texture.

Health

• While ethylene itself is not harmful at low levels, exposure to high concentrations can be an irritant and should be managed in agricultural settings.
• Studies suggest that ethylene management can help maintain the nutritional quality of fruits and vegetables.
• Understanding the gas's role aids in developing better preservation methods and improving food accessibility.

Main points about word origin

• The name 'ethene' comes from the Greek word 'aitho,' meaning 'to burn,' because it was first discovered during combustion processes.
• Ethene is known as 'ethylene' in its pure form; both names are often used interchangeably in science and industry.
• The 'ene' suffix in organic chemistry indicates that it is a type of hydrocarbon that contains a double bond.

The term 'ethene' was introduced in the early 19th century, deriving from the Greek word 'aithō,' meaning 'to burn,' in reference to its flammability. The 'eth-' prefix corresponds to its two carbon atoms, while '-ene' indicates the presence of a double bond, a key feature of alkenes. Ethene was first isolated by Scottish chemist William Henry in 1795, although it was not recognized as a distinct chemical entity until later. Its production and study became crucial in the development of organic chemistry and industrial processes, particularly in the 20th century with the rise of petrochemical industries. Today, ethene plays a vital role in modern chemical manufacturing and agriculture.

Ranking #35,093, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

• ...
• 35090 empyrean
• 35091 situationally
• 35092 frisking
• 35093 ethene
• 35094 mangling
• 35095 disgracing
• 35096 sneeringly
• ...