How is gum formed?
Gum is a natural polymer compound that is widely found in the stems, leaves, fruits and other parts of plants. Its formation process is closely related to the physiological activities of plants, and it is a way for plants to protect themselves or store nutrients. The following is a detailed analysis of gum formation.
1. Definition and classification of gum
Gum is a sticky substance secreted by plants, and its main component is polysaccharide compounds. Depending on their origin and properties, gums can be divided into the following categories:
| Type | Main source of plants | Main ingredients | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gum Arabic | Acacia | polysaccharides, proteins | Food additives, medicine |
| xanthan gum | microbial fermentation | polysaccharide | food thickener |
| peach gum | peach tree | Galactose, arabinose | Health products, cosmetics |
2. The formation process of gum
The formation of gum is usually related to plant trauma or pathological response. The following are the main steps in its formation:
1.Plants are stimulated: Defense mechanisms are triggered when plants are attacked by mechanical damage (such as cuts), insect infestations, or pathogens.
2.cells secrete gum: The phloem or xylem cells of the plant begin to secrete gum in order to seal the wound and prevent water loss and pathogen invasion.
3.Gum curing: The secreted gum gradually solidifies in the air to form a hard protective layer.
3. Factors affecting gum formation
| factors | Influence method |
|---|---|
| ambient temperature | High temperature will accelerate the secretion and solidification of gum |
| Humidity | High humidity environments may make it difficult for the gum to cure |
| plant species | Different plants secrete different gum compositions and amounts. |
| degree of trauma | The greater the trauma, the more gum is secreted |
4. Uses of gum
Gum is widely used in industry and daily life. The following are its main uses:
1.food industry: As thickener and stabilizer, such as jelly, ice cream, etc.
2.Medical field: Binder used to make capsules and tablets.
3.Cosmetics: As a moisturizer or thickener, such as facial mask, lotion.
4.industrial use: Used for adhesives, textile printing and dyeing, etc.
5. The relationship between hot topics in the past 10 days and gum
Recently, gum-related topics have triggered discussions on social media, mainly focusing on the following aspects:
| hot topics | Related content |
|---|---|
| The rise of natural health products | Peach gum is popular as "plant collagen" |
| sustainable development | Research progress on gum as degradable material |
| food safety | Controversy over the safety of gums in food additives |
6. How to collect and preserve gum
1.Collection method: Select a healthy plant, lightly scratch the bark with a knife, and collect the outflowing gum.
2.Save method: Place the gum in a dry and ventilated place, away from direct sunlight, for long-term storage.
Conclusion
The formation of gum is a natural physiological phenomenon of plants, and its diverse uses make it valuable in many fields. With the development of science and technology, the application prospects of gum will be broader.
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