Synthetic organic insecticides primarily include which types of chemicals?

Synthetic organic insecticides mainly include chlorinated hydrocarbons, which are a class of chemicals characterized by the presence of chlorine atoms bonded to a hydrocarbon chain. These compounds were widely used in pest control due to their effectiveness against a broad range of insects and their ability to persist in the environment. They work by disrupting critical biological processes in insects, leading to their demise.

Chlorinated hydrocarbons are distinct because they include famous insecticides such as DDT, which revolutionized pest management during the mid-20th century. However, over time, regulatory scrutiny and environmental concerns have led to significant restrictions on their use due to persistence in the ecosystem and potential harmful effects on non-target organisms, including humans.

In comparison, the other options listed do not classify as synthetic organic insecticides. For example, pentachlorophenol is primarily used as a fungicide and wood preservative rather than a general insecticide, while hydrated lime compounds serve more as a soil amendment and pH adjuster. CCA, or Chromated Copper Arsenate, is commonly utilized as a wood preservative but does not fit within the category of insecticides. Hence, chlorinated hydrocarbons are the clear representatives of synthetic organic insecticides.