Which of the following is a key factor in determining the risk associated with pesticides?

The correct choice highlights that the risk associated with pesticides is determined by both toxicity and the likelihood of exposure. Toxicity refers to how harmful the pesticide can be to humans, animals, and the environment. Different pesticides have varying levels of toxicity; some may cause mild irritation, while others can be highly poisonous.

Likelihood of exposure pertains to how often and in what situations individuals may come into contact with the pesticide. Frequent exposure or exposure in scenarios where protective measures are not taken can significantly increase the risk factors associated with using a pesticide.

When assessing risk, it is crucial to consider both the inherent harmfulness of the chemical (toxicity) and how often people or non-target organisms might encounter it (likelihood of exposure). For instance, a highly toxic pesticide that is rarely used may pose lesser risk than a less toxic pesticide that is frequently applied without adequate safety measures.

Considering the amount of pesticide present and the type of pesticide used can contribute to understanding specific situations or applications, but they do not encompass the comprehensive assessment of risk as effectively as evaluating both toxicity and exposure likelihood together.