Chlorpyrifos: Difference between revisions

Latest revision as of 02:45, 11 December 2024

Organophosphate pesticide used in agriculture

Industrial synthesis of chlorpyrifos

Chemical structure of chlorpyrifos-oxon, a metabolite of chlorpyrifos

Chlorpyrifos is an organophosphate pesticide widely used in agriculture to control a variety of pests. It was first introduced in 1965 by Dow Chemical Company and has been used on crops such as corn, soybeans, fruit trees, and vegetables. Chlorpyrifos acts on the nervous system of insects by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, leading to the accumulation of acetylcholine and subsequent paralysis and death of the pest.

Chemical Properties[edit]

Chlorpyrifos is a crystalline solid with a molecular formula of C₉H₁₁Cl₃NO₃PS. It is moderately soluble in water and has a low vapor pressure, which limits its volatility. The compound is stable under normal conditions but can degrade in the presence of sunlight and alkaline conditions.

Mechanism of Action[edit]

Chlorpyrifos exerts its toxic effects by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme essential for the breakdown of acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft. This inhibition leads to an accumulation of acetylcholine, resulting in continuous stimulation of muscles, glands, and central nervous system structures, ultimately causing paralysis and death in insects.

Uses[edit]

Chlorpyrifos is used in agriculture to control a wide range of pests, including:

Aphids
Caterpillars
Beetles
Mites

It is applied in various forms, including sprays, granules, and seed treatments. The pesticide is also used in non-agricultural settings, such as golf courses and turf management.

Health and Environmental Concerns[edit]

Chlorpyrifos has been associated with potential health risks to humans, particularly in children and agricultural workers. Exposure can occur through inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion of residues on food. Health effects may include:

Neurological symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and confusion
Developmental delays in children
Respiratory issues

Environmental concerns include its potential to contaminate water sources and its toxicity to non-target organisms, such as birds, fish, and beneficial insects.

Regulation and Controversy[edit]

The use of chlorpyrifos has been subject to regulatory scrutiny and controversy. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken steps to restrict its use due to health concerns. Several countries have banned or severely restricted chlorpyrifos, while others continue to allow its use under specific conditions.

Also see[edit]

References[edit]

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-= Chlorpyrifos =
+{{Short description|Organophosphate pesticide used in agriculture}}
+{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}
+{{Pesticide}}
-== Introduction ==
+[[File:Industrial synthesis of chlorpyrifos.svg|thumb|Industrial synthesis of chlorpyrifos]]
-Chlorpyrifos is a commonly used organophosphate insecticide known for its effectiveness in controlling a wide range of pests. It is used in agriculture, residential landscaping, public health pest control, and for treating wood against termite infestation.
+[[File:Chlorpyrifos USA 2011.png|thumb|Chlorpyrifos usage in the USA, 2011]]
+[[File:Chlorpyrifos-oxon.svg|thumb|Chemical structure of chlorpyrifos-oxon, a metabolite of chlorpyrifos]]
-== Chemical Properties ==
+'''Chlorpyrifos''' is an organophosphate pesticide widely used in agriculture to control a variety of pests. It was first introduced in 1965 by Dow Chemical Company and has been used on crops such as corn, soybeans, fruit trees, and vegetables. Chlorpyrifos acts on the nervous system of insects by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, leading to the accumulation of acetylcholine and subsequent paralysis and death of the pest.
-Chlorpyrifos is chemically classified as an organophosphate. It is typically found in the form of a white crystalline powder with a slightly skunky odor. The chemical works by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme essential for proper nerve function.
-== Uses ==
+==Chemical Properties==
-Chlorpyrifos is employed in:
+Chlorpyrifos is a crystalline solid with a molecular formula of C<sub>9</sub>H<sub>11</sub>Cl<sub>3</sub>NO<sub>3</sub>PS. It is moderately soluble in water and has a low vapor pressure, which limits its volatility. The compound is stable under normal conditions but can degrade in the presence of sunlight and alkaline conditions.
-* '''Agricultural Settings''': To control insect pests on a variety of crops.
-* '''Non-Agricultural Settings''': In golf courses, turf, greenhouses, and in wood treatments.
-[[File:Doppeldecker 01 KMJ.jpg|thumb|Use of insecticides in agriculture.]]
+==Mechanism of Action==
+Chlorpyrifos exerts its toxic effects by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme essential for the breakdown of acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft. This inhibition leads to an accumulation of acetylcholine, resulting in continuous stimulation of muscles, glands, and central nervous system structures, ultimately causing paralysis and death in insects.
-== Health and Environmental Impact ==
+==Uses==
-Exposure to chlorpyrifos can have significant health and environmental impacts:
+Chlorpyrifos is used in agriculture to control a wide range of pests, including:
-* '''Health Risks''': Includes neurological effects, developmental disorders, and potential links to respiratory problems.
+* Aphids
-* '''Environmental Concerns''': Risks to non-target species, including beneficial insects, birds, and aquatic life.
+* Caterpillars
+* Beetles
+* Mites
-== Regulatory Status ==
+It is applied in various forms, including sprays, granules, and seed treatments. The pesticide is also used in non-agricultural settings, such as golf courses and turf management.
-The use of chlorpyrifos has been subject to regulatory scrutiny:
-* '''Bans and Restrictions''': Several countries and regions have restricted or banned its use due to health and environmental concerns.
-* '''Ongoing Debates''': The safety of chlorpyrifos continues to be a topic of debate among scientists, policymakers, and industry stakeholders.
-== Alternatives and Future Outlook ==
+==Health and Environmental Concerns==
-In light of regulatory changes and growing health concerns, research into safer alternatives to chlorpyrifos is ongoing. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices and the development of biopesticides are among the alternatives being explored.
+Chlorpyrifos has been associated with potential health risks to humans, particularly in children and agricultural workers. Exposure can occur through inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion of residues on food. Health effects may include:
+* Neurological symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and confusion
+* Developmental delays in children
+* Respiratory issues
-== External Links ==
+Environmental concerns include its potential to contaminate water sources and its toxicity to non-target organisms, such as birds, fish, and beneficial insects.
-* [Link to a government resource on chlorpyrifos regulation]
-* [Link to a scientific study on the environmental impact of chlorpyrifos]
-== References ==
+==Regulation and Controversy==
-<references/>
+The use of chlorpyrifos has been subject to regulatory scrutiny and controversy. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken steps to restrict its use due to health concerns. Several countries have banned or severely restricted chlorpyrifos, while others continue to allow its use under specific conditions.
-[[Category:Insecticides]]
+==Also see==
-[[Category:Agricultural chemicals]]
+* [[Organophosphate poisoning]]
-[[Category:Environmental health]]
+* [[Pesticide regulation]]
+* [[Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor]]
+* [[Environmental impact of pesticides]]
+==References==
+{{Reflist}}
-{{stub}}
+[[Category:Organophosphate insecticides]]
+[[Category:Agricultural chemicals]]
+[[Category:Neurotoxins]]