What is the primary function of a repellent?

The primary function of a repellent is to keep pests away. Repellents are substances formulated to deter pests from entering or inhabiting a space by creating an unfavorable environment or stimuli for the target organism. They work by masking scents that attract pests or emitting odors that are unpleasant to them, effectively encouraging pests to avoid areas where repellents are applied.

Understanding the role of repellents is crucial in pest management because they provide a preventative approach by reducing pest populations without necessarily killing them. This can be beneficial in various situations, such as when the goal is to protect plants, properties, or human health from pest infestations.

Options that suggest attracting pests, killing them on contact, or preventing reproduction address different pest management strategies, but they do not align with the primary function of a repellent, which is solely to discourage and ward off pests.