What is referred to as a compound that keeps pests away from various targets?

A repellent is a compound specifically designed to deter pests from approaching various targets, which can include people, animals, or plants. The primary function of a repellent is to create an environment that pests find unappealing or hostile, thereby reducing their likelihood of interacting with those targets. This is especially important in pest management, as it helps prevent infestations without necessarily killing the pests.

In contrast, insecticides, pesticides, and herbicides are primarily formulated to eliminate or control the populations of specific pests or unwanted plants. Insecticides target insects directly, pesticides encompass a broader range that may include substances targeting both pests and diseases, and herbicides are specifically aimed at controlling unwanted vegetation. Their purpose is different from that of a repellent, which focuses on prevention rather than direct elimination, making "repellent" the correct answer in this context.