Which property of pesticides refers to how well they can bind to soil particles?

The property of pesticides that refers to how well they can bind to soil particles is known as soil adsorption. This term specifically addresses the interactions between pesticide molecules and soil, which can influence how long the pesticide remains in the environment and its potential to contaminate groundwater. High soil adsorption means that the pesticide strongly adheres to soil particles, reducing the likelihood of leaching into water supplies.

In contrast, soil retention refers more broadly to how well water and nutrients are retained in the soil rather than the chemical interactions with pesticides specifically. Soil toxicity pertains to the harmful effects of pesticides on soil organisms, which is a different concept altogether. Soil degradation generally refers to the deterioration of the soil's quality, structure, and function due to various factors, including chemical usage, without directly addressing the binding capacity of pesticides to soil. Hence, soil adsorption is the most accurate term for the specific property in question.