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Pesticides - Definition, Examples, Types, FAQs

Pesticides - Definition, Examples, Types, FAQs

Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on Jul 02, 2025 04:38 PM IST

What is Pesticides?

Pesticides meaning: Pesticides are chemical substances that are intended to kill insects. Generally, an insecticide is a chemical or agent such as a virus, bacterial, antimicrobial, or disinfectant that prevents, ineffective, kills, insects. The use of pesticides is a very common term that this term is often treated in the same way as the plant protection method.It is often used to control or control various agricultural pests that can damage crops and livestock and reduce farm productivity. The most widely used pesticides are insecticides, herbicides, weed control rodents and fungicides to control fungi, fungi and fungus.

This Story also Contains
  1. What is Pesticides?
  2. Types of pesticides
  3. Chemical-related pesticides:
  4. PEST full form:
  5. Effects of Pesticides
  6. What are Biopesticides?
  7. Biopesticides classes
  8. Benefits of using biopesticides

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A Brief History of pesticides

Pesticides are not the latest inventions! Many ancient societies used pesticides to protect their pesticides for plants from pests and insects. The ancient Sumerians used basic sulfur to protect their names of pesticides for plants from pests. During the period, medieval farmers experimented with chemicals using arsenic, leading to conventional crops. The Chinese use arsenic and mercury compounds to control lice and other insects. Meanwhile, in the nineteenth century, researchers focused on natural techniques that included combinations made from the roots of tropical vegetables and chrysanthemums.

In 1939, Dichloro-Diphenyl-Trichloroethane (DDT) was discovered, and it is now widely used and widely used as a chemical pesticides in the world. However, two decades later, due to biological effects and human safety, DDT is banned in nearly 86 countries. Any object or mixture of substances used to prevent and destroy any pest, including vectors of human disease ,animal disease, unwanted species of natural pesticides for plants and animals, causing temporary or permanent damage or disrupting the production, processing, storage, transport or marketing of food, agricultural products , wood and timber products or animal feed, or items that can be given to animals to control insects, arachnids, or other insects in their body or body.

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Types of pesticides

This is organized by the types of pests that kill themselves:

Collected By Types Of Insects That Kill Them

Insecticides - insects

Herbicides - plants

Rodenticides - mice (mice and rats)

Bactericides - germs

Fungicides - molds

Larvicides - larvae

Depending on how they are rotten Pesticides can also be considered:

1.Decaying rot:

Decaying species are those that can be separated from bacteria and other organisms into harmless substances.

2.persistence:

While persistent it is what can take months or years to break down.

One way to differentiate these is to consider those that are chemical types or derived from a common source or method of production.

Chemical-related pesticides:

1.Organophosphate:

Most of the organophosphates are insecticides, and they affect the nervous system by disrupting an enzyme that regulates the neurotransmitter of humans.

2.Carbamate:

Like organophosphorus pesticides, carbamate pesticides also affect the nervous system by disrupting the neurotransmitter-regulating enzyme. However, the effects of the enzyme are often reversed.

3.Organochlorine insecticides:

They were widely used in the past, but now many countries have removed Organochlorine pesticides from their market because of their health and environmental effects and persistence (e.g., DDT, chlordane, and toxaphene).

4.Pyrethroid:

They are designed in such a way that they increase their environmental stability.

5.Sulfonylurea herbicides:

Sulfonylureas herbicides are marketed for weed control such as pyrithiobac-sodium, cyclosulfamuron, bispyribac-sodium, terbacil, sulfometuron-methyl Sulfosulfuron, rimsulfuron, pyrazosulfuron-ethyl, imazosulfuron, nicosulfuron oxas, oxas-sulfas , ethoxysulfuron, chlorimuron-ethyl, bensulfuron-methyl, azimsulfuron and amidosulfuron.

6.Biopesticides examples:

Biopesticides are specific types of pesticides found in natural pesticides substances such as animals, plants, bacteria and certain minerals.

Fungicides,Herbicides and Insecticides are some of the pesticides examples of Pesticides

PEST full form:

Political,Economical,Social and Technological factors

Benefits of pesticides

The great advantage of pesticides is that they can save farmers. By protecting plants from insects and other insects. However, below are some of its key benefits.

Pest control chemicals and vascular disease.

Control of human/animal disease and pests and pathogens.

Controlling substances that damage other human activities and structures.

Effects of Pesticides

These toxic chemicals are designed to be deliberately released from the environment. Although each pesticides is designed to kill a particular pest, a very large percentage of the pesticides reach elsewhere without their purpose. Instead, they get into the air, water, soil, and end up with our food. Pesticides have been linked to health risks, ranging from short-term side effects such as headaches and nausea to chronic side effects such as cancer, birth defects. The use of this also reduces the normal variability in the soil. In the absence of chemicals in the soil there is a higher amount of soil, and this allows for higher water retention, which is necessary for the plants to grow

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What are Biopesticides?

Biopesticides are specific types of pesticides found in natural pesticides substances such as animals, plants, bacteria and certain minerals. For example, canola oil and baking soda have the use of pesticides and are considered biopesticides.

Biopesticides classes

Biopesticides fall into three major categories:

1. Chemical Pesticides.

Chemical pesticides are natural phenomena that control insects in a non-toxic way. The most common pesticides, on the other hand, are usually synthetic materials that directly or indirectly kill the pest. Chemical pesticides include insect-borne pathogens, such as insect-borne pheromones, and the release of various fragrant plants that attract traps.

2. Microbial Pesticides.

Active ingredient in a microbial pesticides is an microorganism

Infectious pesticides can control many types of insects, although each active ingredient is very different from its own insecticide. For example, there are fungi that control certain weeds and other fungi that kill certain insects.

The most widely used pesticides are subspecies and species Bacillus thuringiensis, or Bt.

While some Bt ingredients control moth worms found in plants, some Bt ingredients are designed for fly and mosquito larvae.

3. Plant Incorporated Protectants (PIPs).

Plant-Incorporated-Protectants (PIPs) are plant-based pesticides that have been added to the plant.

For example, scientists can take a gene for the Bt protein that kills pesticides and then introduce the gene into plant genes. Then the plant, instead of the Bt bacteria, does something that kills the insect. Proteins and their genes, but not the plant itself, are regulated by the EPA.

Benefits of using biopesticides

Biopesticides are generally more toxic than conventional pesticides. Biopesticides usually only affect targeted insects and closely related organisms, in contrast to the wide range, common pesticides that can affect organisms such as birds, insects and mammals. Biopesticides usually work in very small amounts and tend to decompose quickly, resulting in lower exposure and more avoidance of pollution problems caused by conventional pesticides.

Also check-

NCERT Chemistry Notes:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. 1.What are the major problems with pesticides?

Pesticides  have the potential to damage the nervous system, the reproductive system, and the endocrine system.

2. 2.What are three ways to control pests?

Pest control chemicals

Mechanical pest control chemicals

A toxic trap

3. 3.What are the types of pesticides?

Insecticides - insects.

Herbicides - plants.

Rodenticides - mice (mice and rats)

Bactericides - germs.

Fungicides - molds.

Larvicides - larvae.

4. 4.Why should we not use pesticides?

Pesticides are very dangerous to human health. Pesticides have been shown to cause fertility and development, cancer, kidney and liver damage, endocrine disorders, etc.

5. 5.What kills insects?

Pesticides are insecticides and are designed to kill insects - a trace in the name. Pesticides include insecticides, plants (herbicides) and fungi / fungi (fungicides).

6. How do biopesticides differ from synthetic pesticides?
Biopesticides are derived from natural materials such as animals, plants, bacteria, and certain minerals. They are generally less toxic and more targeted than synthetic pesticides, which are artificially created chemical compounds. Biopesticides often break down more quickly in the environment and have a lower impact on non-target organisms, making them a more environmentally friendly alternative.
7. How can the environmental impact of pesticides be minimized?
To minimize the environmental impact of pesticides:
8. What are some alternatives to chemical pesticides?
Alternatives to chemical pesticides include:
9. How do pesticides affect soil health?
Pesticides can impact soil health by:
10. How do pesticides affect biodiversity?
Pesticides can negatively impact biodiversity by:
11. What is integrated pest management (IPM)?
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a holistic approach to pest control that combines various strategies to minimize pest damage while reducing reliance on chemical pesticides. IPM involves:
12. How do pesticides affect soil microorganisms?
Pesticides can impact soil microorganisms by:
13. How do pesticides affect pollinators other than bees?
Pesticides can impact various pollinators, including:
14. How do pesticides affect beneficial soil fungi?
Pesticides, particularly fungicides, can impact beneficial soil fungi by:
15. How do pesticides interact with climate change?
Pesticides and climate change interact in several ways:
16. What is the difference between contact and systemic pesticides?
Contact pesticides kill pests upon direct contact with the treated surface. They remain on the plant's exterior and do not enter its tissues. Systemic pesticides, on the other hand, are absorbed by the plant and distributed throughout its tissues. They can kill pests that feed on any part of the treated plant, even if they didn't directly contact the pesticide during application.
17. What is the difference between broad-spectrum and selective pesticides?
Broad-spectrum pesticides are designed to kill a wide range of pests, often affecting many non-target organisms as well. Selective pesticides, on the other hand, are formulated to target specific pests or groups of pests, minimizing harm to other organisms. While broad-spectrum pesticides may be more effective against multiple pests, selective pesticides are generally considered more environmentally friendly.
18. What is pesticide drift and how can it be minimized?
Pesticide drift is the movement of pesticides through air away from the intended target during or after application. It can be minimized by:
19. What is the concept of "pesticide treadmill"?
The pesticide treadmill refers to the cycle of increasing pesticide use and pest resistance. As pests develop resistance to pesticides, farmers often respond by applying more pesticides or switching to stronger formulations. This leads to further resistance development, creating a continuous cycle of escalating pesticide use and resistance. The treadmill can result in environmental degradation, increased costs for farmers, and reduced long-term effectiveness of pest control strategies.
20. What is the role of buffer zones in pesticide management?
Buffer zones are areas between pesticide-treated fields and sensitive environments (e.g., water bodies, natural habitats) where pesticide application is restricted or prohibited. They serve to:
21. How do pesticides impact the environment?
Pesticides can have various environmental impacts, including:
22. How do pesticides enter the food chain?
Pesticides can enter the food chain through various routes:
23. What is the concept of "persistence" in relation to pesticides?
Persistence refers to how long a pesticide remains active in the environment before breaking down. Highly persistent pesticides can remain effective for months or even years, potentially causing long-term environmental contamination. Less persistent pesticides break down more quickly, reducing their long-term impact but potentially requiring more frequent application.
24. How do pesticides affect beneficial insects like bees?
Pesticides can harm beneficial insects like bees through:
25. What is pesticide resistance and how does it develop?
Pesticide resistance occurs when pests develop the ability to survive exposure to pesticides that were previously effective against them. It develops through natural selection: pests with genetic traits that allow them to survive pesticide exposure reproduce, passing these traits to their offspring. Over time, the pest population becomes dominated by resistant individuals, rendering the pesticide less effective or ineffective.
26. What are the main types of pesticides?
The main types of pesticides include:
27. What is the role of adjuvants in pesticide formulations?
Adjuvants are substances added to pesticide formulations to enhance their performance. They can:
28. What is the concept of "pesticide rotation" and why is it important?
Pesticide rotation involves alternating between different classes of pesticides with different modes of action. It's important because:
29. What is the concept of "pesticide half-life"?
Pesticide half-life is the time it takes for half of the initial amount of a pesticide to break down in the environment. It's an important measure of a pesticide's persistence. Factors affecting half-life include:
30. What is the difference between organic and synthetic pesticides?
Organic pesticides are derived from natural sources such as plants, animals, or minerals. They are generally considered less harmful to the environment and human health. Synthetic pesticides are artificially created chemical compounds. Key differences include:
31. What are pesticides and why are they used?
Pesticides are chemical substances used to control, repel, or kill pests. They are primarily used in agriculture to protect crops from damage by insects, weeds, fungi, and other organisms that can reduce crop yield and quality. Pesticides help increase food production and ensure a stable food supply, but their use also raises environmental and health concerns.
32. What is bioaccumulation of pesticides?
Bioaccumulation is the process by which pesticides accumulate in an organism's tissues faster than they can be metabolized or excreted. This occurs when an organism is repeatedly exposed to a pesticide, either directly or through its food. Over time, the concentration of the pesticide in the organism's body increases, potentially reaching harmful levels.
33. What is the "cocktail effect" in pesticide exposure?
The cocktail effect refers to the combined impact of multiple pesticides when organisms are exposed to them simultaneously. The interaction between different pesticides can sometimes lead to synergistic effects, where the total impact is greater than the sum of individual pesticide effects. This phenomenon complicates risk assessment and highlights the importance of considering cumulative exposure in pesticide regulation.
34. How do pesticides contribute to water pollution?
Pesticides contribute to water pollution through:
35. How do pesticides affect human health?
Pesticides can affect human health through:
36. How do pesticides affect aquatic ecosystems?
Pesticides can impact aquatic ecosystems by:
37. What is the difference between acute and chronic pesticide toxicity?
Acute toxicity refers to the harmful effects that occur shortly after a single, high-dose exposure to a pesticide. Symptoms are usually immediate and severe, such as nausea, dizziness, or respiratory distress. Chronic toxicity, on the other hand, results from long-term, low-dose exposure to pesticides. Effects may take months or years to manifest and can include cancer, reproductive issues, or neurological problems. Both types of toxicity are important considerations in pesticide risk assessment and regulation.
38. How do pesticides affect soil erosion?
Pesticides can contribute to soil erosion by:
39. How do pesticides affect bird populations?
Pesticides can impact bird populations through:
40. How do pesticides affect soil pH?
Pesticides can influence soil pH by:
41. How do pesticides affect soil water retention?
Pesticides can influence soil water retention by:

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Questions related to

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Hello aspirant,

A diploma in agriculture is required in order to obtain a license to use pesticides and fertilizers.
It is explicitly stated that a Bachelor of Agriculture or Diploma in Agriculture degree is required in order to obtain a license for a new fertilizer or pesticide store.

Thank you

Correct Answer: Both statement 1 and statement 2 are true, and statement 2 is the correct explanation of statement 1 .


Solution : The correct option is (A) Both statement 1 and statement 2 are true, and statement 2 is the correct explanation of statement 1 .

Statement 1 is true: Sustainable agriculture practices do aim to minimize the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, promote soil conservation, and ensure food security. Sustainable agriculture focuses on long-term environmental and social sustainability, considering the economic viability of farming practices as well. It involves the use of organic and natural fertilizers, integrated pest management, crop rotation, agroforestry, and other techniques that reduce reliance on synthetic inputs and prioritize soil health and biodiversity. The goal is to achieve productive and resilient agricultural systems while minimizing negative impacts on the environment.

Statement 2 is the correct explanation of statement 1. Sustainable agriculture practices do reduce the negative impacts of conventional farming on the environment and human health. Conventional farming, which relies heavily on synthetic inputs like fertilizers and pesticides, can contribute to soil degradation, water pollution, biodiversity loss, and human health risks associated with chemical exposure. By adopting sustainable agriculture practices, farmers can mitigate these negative impacts. For example, reducing synthetic inputs helps protect water quality, promotes beneficial insects and pollinators, and decreases the risk of pesticide residues in food. Sustainable agriculture practices also prioritize soil health, leading to improved soil fertility, water retention, and resilience to climate change.

Both statements are true, and statement 2 provides the correct explanation for statement 1.

Question : Comprehension:

In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank.

The (1)______ of birds is one of the most fascinating aspects of the natural world. From the soaring flight of eagles to the colourful plumage of parrots, birds have evolved a wide range of (2)______ to survive and thrive in their environments. One of the most remarkable adaptations is the ability of some birds to migrate over vast distances, often crossing oceans and continents to reach their breeding or wintering grounds. However, many species of birds are facing threats to their survival, such as habitat loss, climate change and (3)______ by humans. In response, conservation efforts have been put in place to protect these birds and their habitats. This might involve creating protected areas, restoring degraded habitats or reducing the use of pesticides and other harmful chemicals. Another important aspect of bird conservation is (4)_______ populations to track changes over time and identify emerging threats. This can be done through citizen science programmes or through more intensive efforts led by conservation organisations. Ultimately, protecting birds and their habitats is not only important for the birds themselves but also for the broader ecosystems they are a part of, and the many benefits these ecosystems provide to humans, such as clean air and water, and (5)________ opportunities.

Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 4.

Option 1: neglecting

Option 2: monitoring

Option 3: overlooking

Option 4: forgetting

Correct Answer: monitoring


Solution : The most appropriate choice is the second option.

In the context of bird conservation, it's crucial to monitor bird populations to assess their status and any emerging threats. The word "monitoring" means keeping an eye on or observing something over time, which is a key part of conservation efforts.

Correct Answer: Both statement 1 and statement 2 are true.
 


Solution : The correct answer is (a) Both statement 1 and statement 2 are true.

Horticulture does indeed play a vital role in promoting environmental sustainability. It involves the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants, which contribute to biodiversity, conservation of plant genetic resources, and ecological balance. Horticulture also promotes sustainable practices such as minimizing the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, thereby reducing environmental pollution and promoting healthier ecosystems.

Correct Answer: If both I and II follow


Solution : Given:
Statement:
Extensive use of pesticides in agricultural production contaminates soil and water, remains in the crops, and finally enters the food chain, thereby posing a threat to human beings.

Inferences:
I. Excessive use of pesticides in agricultural production is not good for people – From the given statement, it is evident that extensive use of pesticides in agricultural production when entering the food chain, poses a threat to human beings. Pesticides in the food chain will directly harm the health of people.
II. Excessive use of pesticides in agricultural production can have a bad effect on water – From the given statement, it is evident that extensive use of pesticides in agricultural production when used in the soil will also contaminate the groundwater which people use for drinking purposes.

So, both I and II follow. Hence, the fourth option is correct.

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