Which term describes the result of a pesticide's action over time?

The term that describes the result of a pesticide's action over time is "persistence." This refers to how long a pesticide remains effective in the environment and continues to affect pests after its application. Persistence is significant because it can influence both the efficacy of the pesticide and the potential for environmental impact. A pesticide with high persistence may stay active in the ecosystem longer, continually controlling pest populations but also increasing the risk of non-target effects and resistance if used inappropriately.

Efficacy relates to how well a pesticide performs its intended function, meaning it controls or kills the target pest effectively. While this is an important aspect, it does not specifically address the time element inherent in the question about the effects of pesticide action over time.

Degradation signifies the process by which the chemical structure of the pesticide breaks down in the environment. This is related to persistence, but degradation itself focuses on how the substance is chemically altered and not directly on its lasting effectiveness.

Absorption describes how a pesticide is taken up by plants, insects, or soil, which is crucial for understanding its mechanism of action but does not pertain to the duration of effects over time.

Thus, persistence is the most accurate term among the choices given, as it encapsulates the longevity and residual