What does the term "active ingredient" refer to in pesticide formulations?

The term "active ingredient" in pesticide formulations refers specifically to the chemicals that are responsible for the pesticide’s intended effect, such as killing pests or preventing disease. Active ingredients are the components that actively engage with the target organisms, thereby carrying out the function for which the pesticide is used.

In contrast, inert substances in the formulation serve various roles, such as enhancing the efficacy of the active ingredients or improving the product's stability, but they do not contribute to the pesticide's primary function. Brand names are used for marketing and may not convey the specific chemical composition of the pesticide. Safety information, while important for proper handling and usage, does not pertain to the chemical efficacy of the formulation itself. Thus, understanding the role of active ingredients is crucial for selecting and applying pesticides effectively in agricultural practices.