What is a pesticide?

A pesticide is defined as anything intended to manage pests, which can include a wide range of substances designed to control, repel, or kill pests. This classification includes not only chemicals but also biological agents and certain substances that might be used in integrated pest management strategies to minimize pest populations effectively. The primary purpose of a pesticide is to protect crops, materials, and human health from the detrimental effects of pests.

In this context, other choices do not accurately reflect the definition of pesticides. Improving plant growth refers more to fertilizers or growth enhancers rather than pest management. Crop rotation is an agricultural practice aimed at maintaining soil fertility and controlling pest populations, but it is not a substance used for pest control itself. Natural fertilizers serve to nourish plants but do not typically have properties to manage pest populations. Thus, the correct understanding of pesticides centers solely on their role in managing pest issues.