What is the primary goal of using fertilizers?

The primary goal of using fertilizers is nutrient replenishment. Fertilizers are formulated to provide essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are crucial for plant growth. These nutrients help enhance the physiological functions of plants, including photosynthesis, energy transfer, and overall health.

While other options play important roles in agriculture, they do not capture the fundamental purpose of fertilizers. Weed control involves different strategies and products, often herbicides, that target unwanted plants rather than providing nutrients directly to crops. Pest control, similarly, focuses on managing insect populations or diseases that may harm plants, rather than enhancing their nutrient intake. Soil structure improvement relates to how soil retains water and nutrients but does not directly address the nutrient needs of the plants themselves. Thus, the main intention behind the application of fertilizers remains the replenishment of nutrients to support robust agricultural productivity.