What does "residue" refer to in the context of pesticides?

In the context of pesticides, "residue" specifically refers to trace amounts of pesticides remaining on surfaces after the application or use of these chemicals. This includes any remnants that may persist on leaves, soil, or other treated areas following the treatment process. The presence of pesticide residues can be important to assess, particularly in regard to safety, environmental impact, and effectiveness in pest control.

While leftover pesticides in containers might occur after a treatment application, this does not typically fall under the term “residue,” which is more aligned with remnants left in the treated areas. Options suggesting applications that leave no trace contradict the definition of residue, as the term itself implies leftover substances. Similarly, the chemical breakdown of pesticides in soil describes a different phenomenon involving the degradation process rather than residual chemicals that remain after application. Therefore, choosing the option that identifies residue as trace amounts left on surfaces accurately reflects the standard terminology used in pesticide application contexts.