Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) Practice Exam

Which of the following is an example of a borate?

1. Malathion

2. Boric acid

3. Chlorpyrifos

4. Propanil

The correct answer is: Boric acid

Boric acid is an example of a borate because it is a compound that contains boron, a key element in the borate family. Boron compounds, including borates like boric acid, are known for their use in various applications, including pest control, antifungal treatments, and as a wood preservative. In the context of pest management, boric acid is especially effective against insects such as cockroaches, ants, and termites, primarily due to its mode of action that disrupts their digestive systems when ingested. Malathion, Chlorpyrifos, and Propanil are all insecticides used for pest control but do not contain boron and therefore do not classify as borates. Malathion and Chlorpyrifos are organophosphate insecticides with different chemical structures and modes of action. Propanil is an herbicide used primarily in agricultural settings. Each of these options lacks the distinctive borate chemistry, which is specifically characterized by the presence of boron.