What is the definition of a pesticide?

A pesticide is defined as a general term for any substance used to control pests, which encompasses a wide range of products that target various types of organisms that are considered undesirable, including insects, weeds, fungi, and rodents. This broad definition highlights the multifaceted nature of pest control strategies employed in agriculture and landscape management, allowing for various formulations tailored to specific types of pests and their life cycles.

By understanding this definition, it becomes clear that not all pesticides function to eliminate insects solely; they can also include herbicides for weed control, fungicides for diseases, and rodenticides for rodent control. The versatility in application means that a pesticide may have different uses depending on its chemical composition and the targeted organism.

The other options do not accurately reflect the comprehensive nature of a pesticide. For instance, substances that enhance plant growth or are specially designed for water treatment do not fall under the umbrella of pesticides, as they do not primarily serve the function of pest control. Additionally, a product that only eliminates insects would be too narrow a definition, as it excludes many other effective pest control measures available in the market.