Which chemical compound is commonly used to artificially ripen mangoes, even though its use is considered hazardous to health?

Introduction / Context:
This question relates to food safety and basic chemistry. In many markets, fruits such as mangoes are artificially ripened using chemical agents to reach consumers faster. Some of these chemicals are unsafe and are regulated by food safety authorities. Knowing which compound is commonly misused to ripen mangoes helps raise awareness about health risks.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The focus is on artificial ripening of mangoes.
• The options are four calcium based compounds.
• The question asks which compound is commonly used, despite health concerns.

Concept / Approach:
Calcium carbide is widely used illegally to ripen fruits such as mangoes, bananas and papayas. It reacts with moisture to release acetylene gas, which mimics the natural ripening hormone ethylene. However, technical grade calcium carbide often contains impurities like arsenic and phosphorus, making it hazardous. Food safety regulations discourage or ban its use. The other calcium compounds listed have different industrial uses and are not typically associated with fruit ripening in this context.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
To verify, remember that food safety campaigns often mention carbide ripened fruits and warn consumers against them. The phrase carbide ripened mangoes is used in news reports and public advisories. This strongly indicates that the responsible compound is calcium carbide. The other compounds are used for different industrial or laboratory purposes and are not typically highlighted in this context.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Calcium sulphide: Used in certain industrial applications, not widely associated with fruit ripening.

Calcium carbonate: Commonly found in limestone and used as an antacid or in construction, not as a ripening agent.

Calcium chloride: Used as a desiccant and de icing agent, not typically for artificial ripening of fruits.

Common Pitfalls:
Some candidates may not recall the exact name and attempt to guess based on familiarity with words like carbonate or chloride. Others may assume that any calcium compound can be used for ripening. To avoid this, specifically remember the phrase carbide ripening and connect it with calcium carbide. Also note that regulations encourage the use of safe ethylene based ripening methods instead of calcium carbide.

Final Answer:
The chemical commonly used to artificially ripen mangoes is calcium carbide.