If healthy, pest-free fruit are on the ground, they are probably ripe. Stems prepare to separate. When an apple or pear is ready to pick, the stem swells and creates a weak point that will separate from the branch when the apple is lifted. If the apple is not ready, the stem will bend and the fruit will not separate.
anÂ·aÂ·lyte. (an'Ä-lÄ«t) A material or substance the presence or concentration of which in a specimen is determined by analysis. analyte. a substance or material to be analyzed; a molecule to be analyzed by mass spectrometry.
Electrolyte: A substance that dissociates into ions in solution and acquires the capacity to conduct electricity. Sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium, and phosphate are examples of electrolytes, informally known as lytes. Electrolyte replacement is needed when a patient has prolonged vomiting or diarrhea, and as a response to strenuous athletic activity. Commercial electrolyte solutions are available, particularly for sick children (solutions such as Pedialyte) and athletes (sports drinks, such as Gatorade). Electrolyte monitoring is important in treatment of anorexia and bulimia.