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Ethylene Meaning in English

word

ˈɛθəˌɫin
ETH-uh-leen
ˈɛθɪlˌiːn
ETH-il-een

Definition

Ethylene is a colorless gas that acts as a plant hormone to control fruit ripening and is also widely used in the chemical industry to make plastics and other products.

Usage & Nuances

Mainly used in scientific, agricultural, and industrial contexts. Common phrases: 'ethylene gas,' 'ethylene production.' Not to be confused with 'ethanol' (alcohol). In biology, refers to plant hormone; in industry, to the chemical raw material.

Example Sentences

Ethylene helps bananas ripen faster.

basic

The chemical industry uses ethylene to make plastics.

basic

Plants naturally produce ethylene as a hormone.

basic

Did you know that ethylene is responsible for tomatoes turning red on your kitchen counter?

natural

Farmers often use ethylene gas to speed up fruit ripening before sending produce to stores.

natural

Without ethylene, making products like PVC pipes and certain packaging would be much harder.

natural