What is the primary characteristic of inorganic pesticides?

The primary characteristic of inorganic pesticides is that they do not contain carbon and typically have a mineral origin. This means that these pesticides are derived from naturally occurring minerals or elements found in the earth, such as metals (e.g., copper or sulfur) or other non-organic substances. These materials are effective in pest control due to their chemical properties and mechanisms of action, which can disrupt pest life cycles or directly harm pests.

In contrast, organic pesticides are derived from living organisms and contain carbon. This is why the option regarding carbon-containing compounds is not correct. Additionally, inorganic pesticides are not primarily used for fertilization, which is a function more characteristic of certain specially formulated products, rather than general pesticides. Lastly, while there are pesticides made from animal byproducts, it is inaccurate to categorize inorganic pesticides this way, as their definition specifically excludes organic materials and emphasizes mineral origins. Thus, the defining quality that sets apart inorganic pesticides is their lack of carbon and mineral-based derivation.