What does chemical degradation refer to in the context of pesticides?

In the context of pesticides, chemical degradation specifically refers to the breakdown of chemical compounds through a process that typically involves a reaction with water. This process is often called hydrolysis, where the pesticide molecule is attacked by water molecules, leading to the formation of smaller molecules or different chemical entities. This type of degradation is significant because it can influence the effectiveness and environmental impact of pesticides. For example, if a pesticide degrades rapidly through hydrolysis, it may have a shorter residual activity in the environment, reducing the risk of contamination but also potentially leading to less effective pest control.

Other processes, like breakdown by living organisms or microbial activity, and changes in physical state due to heat, describe different degradation mechanisms or physical changes, but they do not specifically capture the essence of chemical degradation as defined in this context.