What is one of the primary uses of herbicides?

Herbicides are specifically formulated chemicals designed to manage undesired plant growth, primarily weeds. Weed control is a critical practice in agriculture and horticulture, as weeds can compete with cultivated plants for nutrients, water, and light, ultimately reducing crop yields. By applying herbicides, farmers can effectively target and kill or inhibit the growth of specific weed species, allowing crops to thrive with reduced competition.

The other options relate to different agricultural practices. Controlling pests involves the use of pesticides that target insects and other pests, while insect protection focuses specifically on defending plants from insect infestations. Soil enhancement refers to practices aimed at improving soil quality through organic matter, fertilizers, and other techniques. Each of these terms addresses a different aspect of agricultural management, but they are not the primary function of herbicides, which is why weed control is the most accurate description of herbicides' main use.