What does 'volatility' refer to in the context of hazardous materials?

In the context of hazardous materials, 'volatility' specifically refers to the tendency of a substance to vaporize. This characteristic is significant because volatile substances can easily transition from a liquid to a gas form, which can lead to inhalation hazards and environmental concerns. The volatility of a substance can affect its behavior in the environment, its potential for exposure, and the risks associated with its handling and storage.

Understanding volatility is crucial for safety protocols in hazardous waste operations, as highly volatile substances may require specific containment and ventilation strategies to minimize the chance of exposure.

The other concepts, such as the speed at which a substance is transported, the degree of biodegradability, and the toxicity levels of a substance, address different properties of materials and their risks, but they do not directly define 'volatility.'