What is the term for a chemical used to control bacteria?

The term for a chemical specifically used to control bacteria is "bactericide." Bactericides are designed to kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria, making them essential in various applications such as sanitation, food preservation, and medical treatments. The effectiveness of a bactericide relies on its ability to target bacterial cells specifically, which distinguishes it from other types of chemicals.

In contrast, the other options refer to chemicals that target different types of organisms. For instance, pesticides are broad terms used for chemicals that control pests, which can include insects, weeds, and other organisms that are considered harmful in agricultural contexts. Fungicides are used to combat fungal infections, specifically targeting fungi, while insecticides are designed to kill insects. Each of these has a distinct function that does not overlap with the primary role of a bactericide, highlighting the importance of using the correct terms for specific applications in pest and disease management.