Which of the following was one of the earliest uses of chemicals as pesticides?

The earliest recorded use of chemicals as pesticides includes the burning of sulfur, which was utilized by ancient civilizations to control pests and prevent the spread of diseases in crops. Sulfur has been recognized since antiquity for its effectiveness against fungal pathogens and for cleansing the air from pests. The practice of burning sulfur creates sulfur dioxide, which is toxic to many insects and fungi, making it a practical choice for early pest management.

While nicotine from tobacco, arsenic, and even water have been employed in various pest control methods over the years, the use of burning sulfur stands out historically as one of the first chemical applications specifically aimed at pest control. This highlights the long-standing recognition of chemical agents in agriculture, which ultimately paved the way for the development of modern pesticides.