What is a pesticide?

A pesticide is defined as a substance specifically intended to prevent, destroy, repel, or mitigate pests, which encompasses a wide variety of organisms that can cause harm or annoyance to humans, animals, crops, and structures. This definition highlights the primary purpose of pesticides: to manage pest populations effectively and safely.

The focus of this definition is on the active role pesticides play in protecting plants, livestock, and human environments from various pests, which can include insects, rodents, fungi, and weeds. The broad nature of the term allows for many different chemical formulations and uses within agricultural and non-agricultural settings, making it a crucial concept within the field of pest management.

The other choices refer to substances that do not fit the definition of a pesticide. For instance, some are aimed at promoting plant growth or serve different purposes like cleaning rather than pest control functions. Understanding this distinction helps clarify the role of pesticides in both environmental management and agriculture.