Which term refers to the ability of a pesticide to dissolve in water?

The term that refers to the ability of a pesticide to dissolve in water is solubility. Solubility is a crucial property for pesticides, as it determines how well the pesticide can mix with water, which in turn affects its effectiveness, application methods, and the potential for movement through the environment. High solubility in water can influence how a pesticide behaves in aquatic environments and how it is absorbed by plants.

Understanding solubility is important for ensuring the correct application rates and methods, as well as assessing the environmental impact of the pesticide. Pesticides that are highly soluble may be more prone to leaching into groundwater or runoff into surface water during rain events.

The other terms, while related to chemical properties, have different meanings. Stability refers to a substance's ability to maintain its chemical structure over time under various conditions. Toxicity measures the harmful effects a substance can have on living organisms. Volatility describes how readily a substance can vaporize into the air, which is a different property linked to the behavior of the pesticide in different environmental conditions. Thus, solubility specifically captures the concept of how easily a pesticide can dissolve in water.