What is the primary definition of toxicity in the context of pesticides?

The primary definition of toxicity in the context of pesticides is the ability to poison organisms. This concept is fundamental in understanding how pesticides interact with different living organisms, including humans, animals, and beneficial insects. Toxicity refers to the adverse effects that a chemical substance can induce in an organism after exposure. It encompasses the potential for harmful effects, whether through ingestion, inhalation, or dermal absorption.

Understanding toxicity is crucial for determining safe handling practices, assessing the environmental impact of pesticide use, and evaluating the risk to non-target species. This definition helps regulators and users understand the inherent risks associated with pesticides and informs the development of safety guidelines and regulations to minimize harmful exposure.

Other choices, while relevant to the broader context of pesticides, do not specifically define toxicity. The ability to repel insects relates to a pesticide's efficacy rather than its toxicological properties. The rate of absorption through the skin and the level of chemical exposure are important factors in assessing toxicity but are not definitions of toxicity itself.