The Chemistry of Pesticides Analytical Essay by Nicky
The Chemistry of Pesticides
An analytical essay on the chemistry and make up pesticides.
# 149431
| 2,240 words
| 8 sources
| MLA
| 2011
|

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Description:
This analytical paper looks at the outline of chemistry within pesticides. Using a chronological approach to creation and use of pesticides, the writer provides a look from the making of DDT onwards. The writer provides an overview of the main pesticides used and their toxic effects on the environment. In addition, the writer ties these use and development of pesticides into the development of the EPA. In the conclusion, the writer argues that users of pesticides should research the pesticide in depth and apply them properly to their specific use.
From the Paper:
"There are several different types of pesticides, and their toxic effects and mode of action all differ. First are the Organophosphate pesticides, which are compounds that act on the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. They contain phosphorous, and they act on the nerve actions of the insect. They attack the enzyme, destroying nerve function, which is necessary for life. Eventually, the pest dies from respiratory failure. One example of an Organophosphate pesticide is Malathion, which is used to control mosquito and Mediterranean fruit fly."Carbamates are another type of pesticides that cause cholinesterase inhibition poisoning by affecting the same enzyme acetylcholinesterase that Organophosphates effect. However, they inhibit the enzyme, rather than attack it, and they are less powerful than the previous group of chemicals. It is interesting to note that Carbamate compounds also exist in polyurethanes, although in far fewer numbers. One type of Carbamate is Sevin, used in agriculture and other applications around the world. It is also banned in several countries because it is highly toxic to a number of species.
"Organochlorines are pesticides that include chlorine as an ingredient, along with carbon and hydrogen. These pesticides attack the neurons by opening sodium ion channels in them, which causes them to fire continually, which causes spasms and then death. One of the most well known of the Organochlorines is DDT, which has been found to be extremely toxic to humans and other animals besides pests, and is known to linger in the environment for years, leading to continuing poisoning of other animals, which led to its ban in the United States in 1972. Many other Organochlorines have been banned, as well."
Sample of Sources Used:
- Pimental, D., Encyclopedia of Pest Management. CRC Press, Boca Raton, 2007.
- Oregon State University, http://oregonstate.edu/~muirp/pesthist.htm, 28 Jan. 2007.
- University of Missouri-Columbia, http://extension.missouri.edu/explorepdf/agguides/pests/g07520.pdf, July 1997.
- Saller, Jeremy, et al. Journal of Environmental Health 69.7, 2007, 27+.
- Wilensky, J., Human Ecology 29.4 2001, 2+.
Cite this Analytical Essay:
APA Format
The Chemistry of Pesticides (2011, December 14)
Retrieved May 28, 2023, from https://www.academon.com/analytical-essay/the-chemistry-of-pesticides-149431/
MLA Format
"The Chemistry of Pesticides" 14 December 2011.
Web. 28 May. 2023. <https://www.academon.com/analytical-essay/the-chemistry-of-pesticides-149431/>