Which of the following is one of the active components of pesticides?

The correct response highlights that active ingredients are indeed the primary components of pesticides responsible for their intended effects, such as controlling or eliminating pests. These substances target specific pests using various modes of action, such as disruption of physiological processes, blocking nervous function, or inhibiting growth.

The other components mentioned—buffers, thickeners, and preservatives—play supportive roles in pesticide formulations. Buffers adjust the pH of the product to enhance stability and effectiveness, thickeners alter the viscosity for easier application and adherence, and preservatives prolong the shelf life by preventing degradation. However, these components do not deliver the core pest control action that active ingredients do, underscoring the significance of understanding the distinctive roles of these components in pesticide formulations.