Cytokinins, Ethylene and ABA — Predicted 2026

AI-Predicted Question Angles for UPSC 2026

Based on trend analysis, current affairs, and recurring themes in Cytokinins, Ethylene and ABA.

Comparative analysis of hormonal interactions in specific plant processes.

high

NEET often tests the integrated understanding of plant physiology. A question might present a scenario (e.g., a plant under drought, a seed failing to germinate, a callus differentiating) and ask which hormone(s) would be involved and in what manner (synergistic/antagonistic). For example, a question could ask about the hormonal balance that maintains seed dormancy and how it's broken, requiring knowledge of both ABA and Gibberellins. This tests deeper conceptual understanding beyond simple recall.

Application-based questions related to commercial uses or agricultural practices.

medium

The practical applications of plant hormones are directly relevant to human welfare and agriculture. Questions could focus on how ethylene is used to ripen fruits commercially, or how cytokinins are utilized in micropropagation. For instance, a question might describe a farmer wanting to ripen bananas quickly and ask which hormone they would use, or how to prevent premature fruit drop. This connects theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, which NEET often favors.

Detailed understanding of the 'triple response' or 'Richmond-Lang effect'.

medium

While basic functions are always important, NEET sometimes delves into specific, named physiological effects. The 'triple response' of ethylene in seedlings and the 'Richmond-Lang effect' of cytokinins are classic examples. A question might describe the symptoms of the triple response and ask to identify the hormone or vice-versa. This tests specific recall and the ability to associate a phenomenon with its causal hormone, indicating a thorough study of the topic.