What term refers to the chemical or chemicals in a pesticide that cause its toxic effects?

The term that refers to the chemical or chemicals in a pesticide that cause its toxic effects is known as the active ingredient. This is the component that is primarily responsible for the pesticide’s effectiveness in controlling pests, whether they are insects, weeds, or fungi. The active ingredient works by interfering with biological processes in the target organisms, leading to their death or incapacitation.

In contrast, adjuvants are substances added to pesticide formulations to enhance their efficacy but do not have any intrinsic pest-control properties of their own. Formulation refers to the complete mixture of ingredients, including both active and inert ingredients, which make up the final product as it is sold to consumers. Inert ingredients are components in the formulation that do not contribute to the product's pesticidal effect, often serving as carriers, solvents, or diluents to improve the stability and performance of the active ingredient. Understanding the role of the active ingredient is paramount for effective pest management and safety practices.