Glyphosate

Definition

Glyphosate is a widely-used herbicide that kills most types of plants by inhibiting an enzyme essential for their growth. It is commonly found in products like Roundup and is used in agriculture, landscaping, and home gardening.

Analogy

Imagine glyphosate as a "plant terminator." Just like how the Terminator robot relentlessly pursues its target until it's eliminated, glyphosate relentlessly targets plants and stops them from growing.

Related terms

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs): Crops that have been genetically engineered to possess certain traits, such as resistance to herbicides like glyphosate.

Residual effect: The ability of a pesticide or herbicide to remain active in the environment for an extended period after application.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM): An approach that combines various pest control methods, including the judicious use of pesticides like glyphosate, with other strategies to minimize environmental impact.