Question

Which salt absorbs ethylene effectively during storage of apple?

• A. KMnO\(_4\)
• B. K\(_2\)SO\(_4\)
• C. KCl
• D. KNO\(_3\)

Hint:

Ethylene speeds up apple ripening. To extend storage life, ethylene needs to be removed. Potassium permanganate (KMnO\(_4\)) is a chemical widely used for this purpose because it oxidizes ethylene gas, effectively 'scrubbing' it from the air.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Ethylene ( \( \text{C}_2\text{H}_4 \) ) accelerates ripening and needs to be removed during apple storage.
Step 2: \( \text{KMnO}_4 \) is a strong oxidiser that chemically breaks down ethylene gas.
Step 3: \( \text{K}_2\text{SO}_4 \), \( \text{KCl} \) and \( \text{KNO}_3 \) are stable salts with no oxidising action on ethylene.
Step 4: Correct option: \( \boxed{\text{KMnO}_4} \).