Which one of the following happens during ripening?

Question

BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

When considering ripening, fruit chemistry undergoes notable changes in its carbohydrate and acid content. 
Option a: 'Acid levels fall and sugar levels fall' would imply both acids and sugars decrease during ripening, which contradicts the typical accumulation of sugars as starches are broken down and the perception of sweetness increases. This makes this option unlikely. 
Option b: 'Acid levels rise and sugar levels fall' suggests acidity increases while sweetness decreases, which is the opposite of what happens as fruit matures and becomes sweeter and less tart. Therefore, this is incorrect. 
Option c: 'Acid levels fall and sugar levels rise' correctly aligns with ripening processes, where acids typically decrease and sugars accumulate, leading to increased sweetness and reduced tartness. This reflects common fruit physiology during maturation. 
Option d: 'Acid levels rise and sugar levels rise' posits simultaneous increases in both acids and sugars, which does not match the known shift toward higher sugar content and lower acidity that characterizes ripening. This makes it inaccurate. 
In summary, option c accurately describes the biochemical changes during ripening—acid decline coupled with sugar increase—while the other options describe scenarios that do not match the standard ripening pattern.

Which one of the following happens during ripening?

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