The adverse effect a substance has on a living entity defines that substances ___________

The adverse effect a substance has on a living entity defines that substance's toxicity. Toxicity is a term used to measure how harmful a substance can be to living organisms, which includes the potential for causing illness, injury, or death. Different substances exhibit varying levels of toxicity depending on factors such as potency, exposure levels, and the specific organisms they affect. Understanding toxicity is crucial in fields like environmental science, health, and safety, as it informs risk assessments and regulatory standards regarding the handling and disposal of hazardous materials.

In contrast, acidity and alkalinity refer to the chemical properties of substances based on their pH levels and do not specifically address the harmfulness to living entities. Demand typically relates to the need or desire for a product or service and does not pertain to the characteristics of substances in terms of their harmful effects. Therefore, toxicity is the most fitting descriptor for the adverse effects that substances may have on living organisms.