What is defined as the active ingredient in a pesticide product?

The active ingredient in a pesticide product is the chemical that provides the desired effects, such as herbicidal, insecticidal, or fungicidal activity. This component is essential because it directly targets and controls the specific pests or unwanted organisms in the environment. Without the active ingredient, the product would not serve its primary purpose of pest control.

Options that refer to fillers, color and scent additives, or application equipment do not contribute to the pesticide's effectiveness against pests. Fillers may serve as carriers or diluents to improve the product's application, but they do not have any pest control capabilities. Similarly, color and scent additives are primarily used for aesthetic purposes and do not affect the pesticide's function. The equipment mentioned in the last option relates to how a pesticide is applied but is not a component of the pesticide itself. Understanding the role of the active ingredient is crucial for effective pest management practices.