BHC (Benzene hexachloride) is aa)weedicideb)fertiliserc)fungicided)pe...
BHC is a highly toxic, non-specific organochlorine insecticide used mostly for a wide variety of agricultural applications. According to Pesticides Association of India (PAI) estimates, BHC accounts for about 40 per cent of the total pesticide used in the country.
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BHC (Benzene hexachloride) is aa)weedicideb)fertiliserc)fungicided)pe...
BHC (Benzene hexachloride) is a pesticide.
Explanation:
Pesticides are chemicals or substances used to control or eliminate pests such as insects, weeds, fungi, and other organisms that can damage crops, harm humans, or spread diseases. BHC, also known as hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH), is a broad-spectrum organochlorine pesticide that has been widely used for pest control.
Here are the reasons why BHC is classified as a pesticide:
1. Definition of a pesticide:
- A pesticide is any substance or mixture of substances intended for preventing, destroying, repelling, or mitigating pests.
- BHC fits this definition as it is specifically designed to control pests, including insects, mites, and some plant diseases.
2. BHC's properties and usage:
- BHC is effective against a wide range of pests, including mosquitoes, flies, lice, termites, and agricultural pests.
- It is used in various forms, including dust, emulsion, and solution, to target different pests and crops.
- BHC is applied to agricultural fields, gardens, and livestock to protect crops and animals from pests.
3. Mode of action:
- BHC acts as a neurotoxin, disrupting the nervous systems of pests and causing paralysis or death.
- Its chemical structure allows it to persist in the environment for extended periods, providing long-lasting pest control.
4. Regulation and classification:
- BHC is regulated as a pesticide by government agencies responsible for ensuring the safety and efficacy of pest control products.
- It is classified as a Restricted Use Pesticide (RUP) due to its potential hazards to human health and the environment.
- Proper handling, storage, and disposal of BHC are required to minimize risks associated with its use.
In conclusion, BHC is classified as a pesticide because it is specifically designed and widely used for pest control purposes. Its properties, mode of action, and regulatory classification all support its categorization as a pesticide.
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