What is the primary use of herbicides in agriculture?

The primary use of herbicides in agriculture is for weed control. Herbicides are specifically formulated chemicals designed to target and eliminate unwanted plants, or weeds, that compete with crops for nutrients, water, and light. Effective weed management is crucial for maximizing crop yields and maintaining soil health. By applying herbicides, farmers can reduce the presence of these invasive plants, which, if left unchecked, could significantly hinder crop growth and reduce agricultural productivity.

While other options such as pest control, soil conditioning, and plant growth regulation are important aspects of agricultural practices, they are not the primary purpose of herbicides. Pest control typically involves the use of insecticides or fungicides, while soil conditioning refers to practices aimed at improving soil structure and fertility, and plant growth regulation involves substances that influence plant growth patterns, none of which falls under the specific function of herbicides.