What is the primary focus of agricultural science?

The primary focus of agricultural science encompasses a comprehensive understanding of the production, processing, and management of both crops and livestock. This field integrates various scientific disciplines, including biology, chemistry, and environmental science, to improve agricultural practices, enhance food security, and ensure efficient resource management. By studying crop production, scientists seek to increase yield and quality, while also examining livestock management to optimize health and productivity. The incorporation of processing methods ensures that food products are safely and effectively transformed for consumption.

While the other options highlight important aspects of agriculture, they do not encompass the full breadth of agricultural science. For example, the study of livestock production and processing focuses narrowly on a specific type of agricultural output without addressing crops. Similarly, the study of agricultural policies and economics is crucial for understanding the market and regulatory environment but does not delve into the technical and practical aspects of growing food and raising animals. The exploration of environmental sustainability in agriculture is increasingly significant but is specifically one dimension of the holistic approach that agricultural science takes towards improving production and management practices across the whole agricultural sector. Thus, the selection correctly identifies the multifaceted nature of agricultural science.