True or False: The more persistent a chemical is, the less likely it is to reach groundwater.

The statement is false because a chemical's persistence often indicates its ability to remain in the environment for a prolonged period without breaking down. Persistent chemicals are more likely to accumulate in soil and can easily leach into groundwater if they are not effectively absorbed or contained. Chemicals that last longer in the environment have a greater chance of infiltrating the groundwater system, especially if they are soluble in water or if environmental conditions facilitate their movement. Therefore, the tendency of a chemical to reach groundwater is often correlated with its persistence and mobility characteristics rather than the opposite. Understanding the chemical's properties, including its potential interactions with soil and water, is key in assessing its risk to groundwater contamination.