What does it mean to detoxify a chemical compound?

Detoxifying a chemical compound refers to the process of rendering it harmless or less harmful, which aligns perfectly with the choice provided. This process often involves breaking down toxic substances into non-toxic or less toxic forms, allowing for safer interaction with living organisms and the environment. For example, certain biological systems can metabolize toxic compounds, transforming them into substances that are benign or easier to eliminate from the body or the environment. This concept is crucial in fields like environmental science, toxicology, and pharmacology, where understanding the implications of chemical exposure and how to neutralize harmful substances is vital for health and safety.

In contrast, enhancing toxicity, making a compound more reactive, or increasing efficacy would result in compounds that are more dangerous or potent, which contradicts the idea of detoxification.