What is the term used for the amount of pesticide to which a surface, plant or animal is exposed?

The term that describes the amount of pesticide to which a surface, plant, or animal is exposed is called "dose." In the context of pesticide application, the dose refers specifically to the quantity of the pesticide received by the target organism or surface. This can impact both the effectiveness of the pesticide in controlling pests and the safety of the application with regard to non-target organisms and the environment.

Using the term "dose" is particularly important because it encompasses not only the volume of pesticide applied but also considers factors such as timing, method of application, and the organism's ability to absorb or resist the chemical. Understanding dose is critical for achieving the desired control of pests while minimizing potential harm to beneficial organisms and the ecosystem. It is distinct from concepts like concentration and application rate, which relate more to the formulation and manner of delivery of the pesticide rather than the interaction with the target itself.