Here's a breakdown of its chemical structure:
* Name: (S)-(+)-5-(1-hydroxy-2,6,6-trimethyl-4-oxo-2-cyclohexen-1-yl)-3-methyl-2,4-pentadien-oic acid
* Formula: C₁₅H₂₀O₄
* Structure: It has a 15-carbon chain with a cyclohexene ring, a conjugated double bond system, and a carboxylic acid group.
Key aspects of its structure:
* Cyclohexene ring: This ring is important for the hormone's activity and is responsible for the "cis" configuration of the molecule.
* Carboxylic acid group: This group is essential for ABA's biological activity. It allows the molecule to interact with receptors in plant cells.
* Conjugated double bond system: This system contributes to the stability of the molecule and allows for the interaction of ABA with light.
Therefore, ABA is not a mixture of other substances but a specific compound with a unique structure.