Pesticides are defined as which of the following?

• A. n. chemicals used in agriculture to kill bugs and insects
• B. n. fertilizers used to feed plants
• C. n. substances that improve soil structure
• D. n. hormones that promote growth

Answer: (A)

Pesticides are substances used to control pests that threaten crops. They’re applied to protect yields by reducing damage from organisms like insects, weeds, fungi, or rodents. The option describing chemicals used in agriculture to kill bugs and insects best fits because it captures the primary purpose: pests are targeted to prevent crop loss. The other choices describe nutrients for plants (fertilizers), substances that improve soil structure, or growth-promoting hormones—roles different from pest control. In practice, pesticides include insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, and rodenticides, all aimed at reducing damage from unwanted organisms.