Which of the following statements about active ingredients in pesticides is correct?

The statement that active ingredients must be accompanied by inert ingredients to be effective captures an important aspect of pesticide formulation. Active ingredients are the chemical compounds responsible for the pesticide's intended effect on pests, while inert ingredients serve various purposes in the product, such as enhancing the stability, effectiveness, and usability of the pesticide.

In many cases, inert ingredients improve the delivery and absorption of the active ingredient, making the pesticide more efficient in its performance. Therefore, while it is true that active ingredients are crucial for pest control, the presence of inert ingredients often plays a significant role in ensuring that the pesticide functions effectively as a whole. This formulation aspect is essential for achieving the desired results in pest management.

In contrast, active ingredients are not always more harmful than inert ones, as toxicity can vary greatly among both categories. Additionally, while active ingredients are critical for pest control, it is misleading to claim they are the only components affecting efficacy, since inert ingredients also contribute significantly to the formulation effects. Lastly, stating that active ingredients contain no risks when used properly overlooks the potential hazards associated with their use, emphasizing the need for safety and proper handling guidelines.