Question

Ethylene absorbent used during storage is

• A. CaCl₂
• B. CaCO₃
• C. KMnO₄
• D. NH₃

Hint:

Potassium permanganate (KMnO\(_4\)) is well-known for its distinctive deep purple color and its strong oxidizing properties. In post-harvest, its main role is as an ethylene scavenger.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Core Idea:
The task is to find a chemical compound that absorbs or eliminates ethylene gas from where fruits and vegetables are stored.

Step 2: Breakdown:
Ethylene speeds up ripening and aging, so removing it extends produce's shelf life. "Ethylene scrubbers" or absorbents achieve this. Potassium permanganate (KMnO\(_4\)), a strong oxidizer, converts ethylene into ethylene glycol and carbon dioxide, removing it. KMnO\(_4\) is usually applied to an inert material like silica gel or alumina (often as purple beads) and placed in storage areas.\[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{CaCl₂ (Calcium chloride) absorbs moisture.} \\ \bullet & \text{CaCO₃ (Calcium carbonate) is unreactive here.} \\ \bullet & \text{NH₃ (Ammonia) is a gas, not an absorbent.} \\ \end{array}\]

Step 3: Answer:
The ethylene absorbent is KMnO₄ (Potassium permanganate).