What is a major advantage of herbicide-resistant crops?

• A. They have greater nutritional value.
• B. They are more resistant to disease.
• C. They produce toxins that kill insects but are harmless to humans.
• D. They allow farmers to use as much herbicide as they want without worrying about harming the crops.
• E. They allow farmers to "weed" with herbicides, cutting down on soil tillage and erosion.

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of herbicide-resistant crops: These are genetically modified plants that can survive applications of herbicides that would normally destroy them.
2. Recognize the primary advantage: Herbicide-resistant crops allow farmers to apply herbicides to control weeds without damaging the crops themselves.
3. Consider the environmental impact: By reducing the need for mechanical tillage to control weeds, these crops help decrease soil erosion and preserve soil structure.
4. Evaluate the agricultural benefits: Farmers can manage weeds more effectively and efficiently, potentially leading to higher crop yields and reduced labor costs.
5. Acknowledge the broader implications: While herbicide-resistant crops offer significant advantages in weed management, they also raise concerns about herbicide overuse and the development of herbicide-resistant weed species.