Oklahoma Service Technician Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of a pesticide?

1. To promote plant growth

2. To prevent food spoilage

3. To mitigate unwanted plant or animal life

4. To enhance soil fertility

The correct answer is: To mitigate unwanted plant or animal life

The primary purpose of a pesticide is to mitigate unwanted plant or animal life, which includes weeds, insects, fungi, and other organisms that can adversely affect crops, livestock, and the overall ecosystem. Pesticides are specifically formulated to target and control these undesired species, helping to protect agricultural productivity and enhance food security. By applying pesticides, farmers and gardeners can effectively manage pest populations, which can otherwise lead to significant damage to plants and more extensive agricultural losses. This use of pesticides plays an essential role in integrated pest management strategies, aimed at maximizing crop yield while minimizing health risks and environmental impacts. The other options relate to functions that are not directly served by pesticides. For example, promoting plant growth pertains more to fertilizers, preventing food spoilage is a role of preservatives, and enhancing soil fertility is generally linked to organic matter and nutrients rather than the action of pesticides. Thus, option C accurately reflects the main purpose of pesticides in agricultural practices and pest management.