What term describes the inherent ability of a pesticide to cause injury or poison to organisms?

The correct term that describes the inherent ability of a pesticide to cause injury or poison to organisms is toxicity. Toxicity specifically refers to the degree to which a substance can harm living organisms and is a fundamental characteristic of pesticides. This term encompasses both the nature of the chemical itself and its effects on various biological systems.

Understanding toxicity is crucial for pesticide applicators, as it helps them assess how dangerous a particular pesticide may be to target organisms, including humans, pets, and non-target wildlife. This assessment guides applicators in determining safe application rates, potential health risks, and protective measures that should be taken when handling these chemicals.

The other terms, while related, do not accurately describe this inherent ability. 'Risk' pertains to the potential harm posed by a substance based on both its toxicity and the likelihood of exposure. 'Hazard' refers to the potential for something to cause harm, which is broader and includes context such as exposure and the environment. 'Exposure' is about the contact between the pesticide and an organism, which is necessary for toxicity to manifest, but it doesn’t directly define the harmful properties of the pesticide itself.