Which of the following is an example of Organophosphates?

Organophosphates are a class of chemicals primarily used as insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides. They work by interfering with the normal function of the nervous system in pests, which makes them effective for controlling various agricultural and public health pests.

The correct choice, Parathions, is a well-known example of an organophosphate. It is effective against a wide range of insects but is also highly toxic to non-target organisms, including humans. Parathion acts by inhibiting an enzyme called acetylcholinesterase, leading to an accumulation of acetylcholine, which causes continuous stimulation of the nervous system.

In contrast, while DDT was an important pesticide, it belongs to the class of chemicals known as organochlorines, not organophosphates. Methyl bromide is a broad-spectrum pesticide that serves primarily as a fumigant and is classified as a halogenated hydrocarbon rather than an organophosphate. Bacterial pesticides refer to a diverse set of biological control methods that utilize bacteria, such as Bacillus thuringiensis, which are not related to organophosphate compounds.

Selecting Parathions as the example of organophosphates demonstrates an understanding of this specific category of pesticides, highlighting their