What is the main purpose of herbicides?

The main purpose of herbicides is to control plants. Herbicides are specifically formulated chemicals designed to manage unwanted plant growth by inhibiting their ability to photosynthesize or grow. This is particularly useful in agricultural practices, landscaping, and garden maintenance, where the goal is to eliminate weeds or other non-desirable vegetation that can compete with crops for nutrients, water, and sunlight.

Rodent control falls under pest control methods specific to mammals, while insect control involves chemicals called insecticides that target insect pests. Animal control generally refers to methods used to manage larger wildlife or domestic animals, which would not be addressed by herbicides. Thus, the primary function of herbicides is directly associated with the management of plant life, distinguishing them from other crop protection or pest management strategies.