The correct answer is (a) Ethaphon. Ethaphon is a plant growth regulator that is used to induce fruit ripening. It is a synthetic auxin, which is a type of plant hormone that promotes cell division and elongation. Ethaphon is applied to fruits by spraying or drenching the fruit, or by injecting it into the fruit. It causes the fruit to ripen more quickly and evenly, and it also improves the flavor and texture of the fruit.
Atrazine is a herbicide that is used to control weeds in corn and other crops. It is a non-selective herbicide, which means that it kills all plants that it comes into contact with. Atrazine is applied to the soil before planting, and it is absorbed by the roots of the weeds. It then moves up the plant and kills it.
Isoproturan is an insecticide that is used to control a variety of insects, including mosquitoes, flies, and cockroaches. It is a contact insecticide, which means that it kills insects when they come into contact with it. Isoproturan is applied as a spray or dust, and it is absorbed by the insects through their skin or mouth.
Malathion is an insecticide that is used to control a variety of insects, including mosquitoes, flies, and ticks. It is a contact and stomach insecticide, which means that it kills insects when they come into contact with it or when they eat it. Malathion is applied as a spray or dust, and it is absorbed by the insects through their skin or mouth.
Ethaphon is the only chemical in the list that is used to induce fruit ripening. The other chemicals are used to control weeds, insects, or both.