How is risk defined in the context of pesticides?

In the context of pesticides, risk is defined as the likelihood of harm occurring due to exposure to a substance, which in this case is a pesticide. The correct formulation involves both the toxicity of the pesticide and the level of exposure an individual or environment may experience. Toxicity refers to the harmful effects a substance can cause to living organisms, while exposure indicates the amount and duration an organism comes into contact with the substance.

The relationship between these two factors highlights that risk increases as either the toxicity of the pesticide or the level of exposure rises. Therefore, multiplying toxicity by exposure provides a quantitative way to assess the potential risk involved when using pesticides.

This understanding emphasizes the importance of managing both aspects—ensuring that pesticide use is within safe limits (considering toxicity) and minimizing exposure to reduce the overall risk associated with pesticide application.