Butyl 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate is a derivative of 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC), the immediate biosynthetic precursor to ethylene in plants. It is primarily used in plant biology research to induce ethylene production, enabling studies on ethylene-regulated processes such as fruit ripening, leaf abscission, flower senescence, and responses to environmental stress. This compound is applied in laboratory settings to treat plant tissues, fruits, vegetables, and cut flowers, facilitating clear observation of ethylene's effects on ripening and aging.