Chapter 20 Guiding Questions

1) What kinds of agricultural related actions / decisions has man made that has now "required" us to use pesticides? What do you think man could do to reverse the need?

2) Plants that have evolved in complex ecosystems (not monocultures) have evolved defenses against "natural" pests. Please explain that process using the word "coevolution."

3) After the 1400's people started using arsenic, lead, & mercury as insecticides. They were successful in killing insects. Were there any problems associated with their use? Explain.

4) Compare (how are they alike) and contrast (how are they different) first and second generation pesticides.

5) Use the terms "broad-spectrum," "narrow-spectrum," "low persistence," and "high persistence" to a) describe the worst kind of 2nd generation pesticide and b) the best 2nd generation pesticide in terms of ecological damage caused. Explain why you answered the question the way you did.

6) Pesticides are widely used. Why? Please rank the reasons in terms of what you think are most important to least important. Please explain the reason for your #1 pick and your last pick.

7) Pesticides are widely condemned by "green people." Why? Please rank the reasons in terms of what you think are the most important to least important. Please explain the reason for your #1 pick and your last pick.