What is a common characteristic of both agricultural and non-agricultural pesticides?

A common characteristic of both agricultural and non-agricultural pesticides is that both can be harmful to humans. Pesticides are chemicals designed to control pests, which includes insects, weeds, and diseases. However, their chemical composition can also pose risks to human health, particularly if they are misapplied or if individuals do not follow safety guidelines during handling and application. This potential for harm emphasizes the importance of proper training, safety measures, and understanding of the chemicals being used.

In contrast, the other options suggest characteristics that do not apply universally to all pesticides. Not all pesticides require a license to apply, as many non-agricultural pesticides can be purchased and utilized by the general public without formal credentials. Additionally, pesticides are used for a wide array of purposes beyond just food crops, including maintaining public health and treating ornamental plants. Lastly, while many pesticides may be based on organic compounds, not all are organic; there are synthetic pesticides as well. Thus, the inherent risk to human health is the most accurate and inclusive characteristic shared by both categories of pesticides.