Question

Ripe fruits soften due to

• A. Degeneration of cell walls
• B. Partial solubilisation of pectic compounds
• C. Metabolism of tannins
• D. Exosmosis.

Answer 1

The correct option is B Partial solubilisation of pectic compounds

• Pectin is a naturally occurring heteropolysaccharide present in the primary cell walls of plants.
• It is a natural fibre found in the cell walls of plants and is mainly found in the fruit skin.
• It is a major component of fruit cell walls that are extensively modified during fruit ripening.
• This structural component undergoes partial solubilization, depolymerization and the loss of neutral side chains that causes ripening of the fruits.

Explanation of the incorrect option:

Option A,B and C didnot satisfy the appropriate explanation of the given question.

Final answer: Ripe fruits soften due to Partial solubilisation of pectic compounds