Ethylene: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'ethylene' comes from 'ethane,' a simple hydrocarbon, with the suffix '-ene' suggesting it is an alkene, a type of unsaturated hydrocarbon.
• The name was first introduced in the mid-19th century when scientists discovered the compound.

Agriculture

• Ethylene is naturally produced by fruits and vegetables, signaling them to ripen and mature.
• Farmers often use ethylene in controlled ripening processes, ensuring that fruits reach consumers at the perfect sweetness.
• Some plants, like flowers, also use ethylene to trigger blooming and senescence (aging).

Industry

• It's a key building block for producing various plastics, particularly polyethylene, which is widely used in packaging.
• Ethylene is one of the most produced organic compounds in the world, with millions of tons manufactured annually for diverse industrial applications.

Health and Safety

• Though ethylene is useful, it can be hazardous; it's flammable and requires careful handling in industrial settings.
• Exposure to high concentrations can cause headaches or respiratory issues, so safety measures are crucial in its production.

Pop Culture

• In some documentaries about food and science, ethylene is highlighted for its role in understanding how to prolong the shelf life of fresh produce.
• Movies and shows sometimes reference the gas when discussing the secrets of fruit ripening or agricultural science.

Ranked #10,127, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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