What term refers to a pesticide's capacity to cause injury?

The term that refers to a pesticide's capacity to cause injury is toxicity. This concept is essential in understanding how pesticides interact with living organisms. Toxicity measures the degree to which a substance can damage or harm cells, tissues, or organisms, making it crucial in evaluating the safety and potential risks associated with pesticide use.

For example, when assessing pesticides for agricultural use, understanding their toxicity helps applicators determine appropriate application methods, target species, and protective measures necessary to mitigate risks to non-target organisms, including humans and beneficial insects. Toxicity can vary significantly among different substances, and this variation informs decisions on safe handling, application rates, and environmental impact.

In contrast, exposure refers to the amount of pesticide that an individual or organism comes into contact with, while hazard is a broader term that encompasses not only toxicity but also the likelihood of exposure leading to adverse effects. Effectiveness pertains to a pesticide's ability to control pests rather than its capacity to cause injury. Understanding these distinctions helps pesticide applicators make informed choices that balance pest control with safety concerns.