What is photodegradation?

Photodegradation refers to the process by which compounds, such as pesticides, are broken down through the action of sunlight. This transformation typically involves the absorption of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which provides the energy necessary to initiate chemical reactions that result in the degradation of the pesticide molecules. Photodegradation is an important factor to consider in pesticide management because it can influence the persistence and efficacy of these chemicals in the environment, as well as their potential impact on non-target organisms.

The other options describe different processes related to pesticides but do not accurately define photodegradation. The breakdown of pesticides by microorganisms relates to biodegradation, which involves biological activity rather than light. The chemical transformation of pesticides could refer to various chemical reactions, but without the specific context of sunlight, it does not accurately capture the essence of photodegradation. Meanwhile, the accumulation of pesticides in living tissues describes bioaccumulation, a separate environmental concern where toxins persist and increase in concentration in organisms over time, rather than breaking them down with the aid of sunlight.