Which of the following is an example of a pesticide?

A pesticide is defined as a substance or mixture intended for preventing, destroying, repelling, or mitigating any pest. In this context, an insecticide is a type of pesticide specifically formulated to target and eliminate insects. This aligns with the regulatory definitions established for pesticides, which include various categories based on the specific pests that are controlled.

In contrast, fertilizers are substances that enhance plant growth but do not serve the purpose of controlling pests, and thus do not qualify as pesticides. Water, while essential for life and often used in various agricultural practices, is not considered a pesticide because it does not contain ingredients aimed at controlling pests. Compost, a natural organic material used to improve soil health, primarily serves as a soil amendment rather than a pest control agent. These distinctions clarify why an insecticide stands out as a clear example of a pesticide.