Which herbicide family causes plant death through the formation of reactive compounds disrupting cellular integrity?

The correct answer highlights that carotene synthesis inhibitors are herbicides that function by disrupting the formation of carotenoids, which are essential pigments in plants. Carotenoids play a crucial role in protecting chlorophyll from photodamage and are involved in photosynthesis. When these herbicides impede carotene synthesis, it leads to a breakdown of cellular integrity, as the plants lose the protective capacity afforded by these pigments. Without sufficient carotenoids, oxidative stress increases, eventually leading to plant death. This mechanism underscores the importance of carotenoids in maintaining the health and viability of plant cells.

In contrast, the other options represent different herbicide mechanisms. Fatty acid synthesis inhibitors disrupt the production of essential fatty acids, affecting membrane integrity and growth but not specifically through the formation of reactive compounds. Photosystem I electron diverters act on the photosynthetic electron transport chain, causing energy imbalances, while cellulose biosynthesis inhibitors target the synthesis of cellulose, impacting cell wall formation and structural integrity. Each of these mechanisms leads to plant death through distinct pathways, making them distinct from the action of carotene synthesis inhibitors.