The term that describes the risk or chance that harm will come from using a pesticide is known as what?

The term that describes the risk or chance that harm will come from using a pesticide is known as hazard. In the context of pesticides, hazard refers to the potential for adverse effects from exposure to a chemical, which includes not only the inherent toxicity of the substance but also the conditions under which it is used. This means that a pesticide may have a specific level of toxicity, but the actual hazard it presents will depend on factors such as application rate, exposure duration, and the vulnerability of the individual or organism being exposed.

Toxicity refers specifically to the degree to which a substance can harm humans or animals, providing a measure of the inherent harmful properties of the pesticide itself. Concentration relates to the amount of pesticide present in a given volume or area, influencing the exposure levels but not directly describing the overall risk. Potency describes the strength of a pesticide, particularly how effectively it can produce an effect at a certain dose, but it does not cover the broader concept of risk associated with its use. Overall, understanding the distinction between hazard and these other terms is crucial for evaluating and managing pesticide risks effectively.