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Which of the following best describes leaching of pesticides?

  1. Pesticides moving through air

  2. Pesticides filtering through soil to groundwater

  3. Pesticides evaporating back into the atmosphere

  4. Pesticides contaminating surface water

The correct answer is: Pesticides filtering through soil to groundwater

Leaching of pesticides specifically refers to the process where pesticides seep through the soil and eventually reach the groundwater. This movement typically occurs when water, either from precipitation or irrigation, carries the chemicals downward through the soil layers. The significance of leaching lies in its potential impact on groundwater quality, making it an important aspect of environmental safety in pesticide application. Understanding this terminology is crucial for proper pesticide management and for adhering to regulations designed to protect water resources. The other processes mentioned, such as movement through air, evaporation, and surface water contamination, involve different mechanisms and contexts, highlighting the distinct nature of leaching in relation to groundwater concerns.