Which property of a pesticide would make it more likely to move in surface water runoff?

A pesticide with high solubility is more likely to move in surface water runoff because it readily dissolves in water. When it rains or when there is water runoff, pesticides that dissolve easily can be transported with the flowing water. This can lead to their movement from agricultural fields or treated areas into nearby water bodies.

In contrast, a pesticide with high adsorption tends to bind tightly to soil particles. This connection would keep it from being washed away during rain or runoff events, reducing its movement into surface water. High volatility refers to a pesticide’s tendency to evaporate into the air, which affects its presence in the atmosphere rather than water bodies. Low persistence indicates that the pesticide breaks down quickly in the environment; while this may limit its timeframe in which it can contaminate water, it doesn’t directly impact the immediate movement in runoff.