What is indicated by a lower LD50 value?

A lower LD50 value indicates that a smaller amount of the chemical is required to kill 50% of the test population, which means the substance is more toxic. The term "LD50" stands for lethal dose for 50% of the population and is a common measure used to assess the toxicity of a substance.

When the LD50 value is low, it suggests that the chemical can cause lethal effects at lower concentrations compared to substances with higher LD50 values. This relationship is critical for herbicide applicators as it helps them understand the potential risks associated with using specific chemicals in agricultural practices. Consequently, appropriate safety measures and correct application rates must be adhered to when working with substances with low LD50 values to minimize harm to humans, wildlife, and the environment.