What is a diluent used for in pesticide formulations?

A diluent is a substance that is added to pesticide formulations primarily to dilute or reduce the concentration of the active ingredient. This serves several important functions: it makes the application of the pesticide safer and more effective by ensuring that the active ingredient is present in appropriate concentrations that target pests effectively without causing excessive harm to non-target organisms or the environment.

Using diluents can also improve the handling and application of the pesticide. Concentrated formulations can be difficult to apply evenly and may pose safety risks to the applicator and surrounding environment. By diluting the pesticide, it also allows for easier mixing and application.

While the other options present various characteristics that substances in pesticide formulations might have, they do not correctly represent the primary role of a diluent. For example, increasing toxicity or enhancing volatility is not the purpose of a diluent, nor is it meant primarily for stabilizing the pesticide. Thus, option B accurately reflects the purpose of a diluent in pesticide formulations.