What is the primary use of an algaecide?

An algaecide is specifically designed to target and manage algae populations in various environments like water bodies, swimming pools, and agricultural settings. The primary use is to kill or inhibit the growth of algae, which can be detrimental to water quality and can disrupt aquatic ecosystems. By effectively addressing algal blooms, algaecides help maintain a healthy balance within ecosystems, prevent issues like oxygen depletion, and protect other aquatic organisms from harmful algal toxins.

The other options represent different concepts. Promoting plant growth refers to fertilizers or plant growth regulators, not algaecides. The effectiveness of pesticides is enhanced through adjuvants, not algaecides. Lastly, soil remediation involves cleaning and restoring contaminated soil, which does not relate to the role of algaecides in managing algae. Therefore, the primary function of an algaecide aligns perfectly with the choice indicating its purpose to kill or inhibit algae.