Used primarily as a herbicide to control broadleaf weeds in various crops, 2,3-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid acts as a synthetic auxin, mimicking plant hormones to disrupt normal growth processes, leading to uncontrolled cell division and elongation that causes plant death. It is effective in agricultural settings, particularly for cereal crops, turf, and non-cropland areas. Additionally, it can be applied in forestry management to clear underbrush and invasive species. It is also used in scientific research to study plant hormone mechanisms and chemical responses in plants. Careful application is required to minimize environmental impact and avoid damage to non-target plants.