What is an example of an artificial chemical used in agriculture?

Fertilizers are a prime example of artificial chemicals used in agriculture. They are manufactured substances designed to provide essential nutrients to plants, thereby enhancing growth and yield. Unlike natural fertilizers, which are derived from organic sources like manure or compost, artificial fertilizers are synthetically produced to contain specific ratios of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, among other nutrients. This controlled composition allows farmers to address nutrient deficiencies in the soil more effectively and to tailor their application based on specific crop needs.

Compost, on the other hand, is an organic material created through the decomposition of plant and animal matter, and it is not a chemical. Insect repellents can also include both synthetic and natural components, but they are primarily intended for pest control rather than for fertilizing soil. Organic mulch refers to plant materials applied to the soil surface to retain moisture and suppress weeds, not an artificial chemical. Therefore, the distinctive characteristics and purpose of fertilizers make them the clear example of an artificial chemical used in agriculture.