What is the term used to describe the movement of a chemical into plants, animals, and microorganisms?

The term that accurately describes the movement of a chemical into plants, animals, and microorganisms is absorption. This process involves the uptake of substances through cell membranes, allowing organisms to incorporate chemicals into their biological systems.

When a chemical is absorbed, it can be distributed through various biological pathways, influencing metabolism and interaction with other compounds within the organism. This is particularly relevant in the context of pest management, where the effectiveness of pesticide application often depends on how well those chemicals can penetrate the target organism.

Other terms like adsorption refer to the process where substances adhere to surfaces rather than being taken up into the tissues. Adsorbent relates to materials that facilitate this adsorption process, while active ingredient refers to the specific component in a product that is responsible for the desired effect, such as pest control. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for effective pest management and the overall application of chemicals in agriculture and horticulture.