What is the characteristic of a compound that is considered volatile?

A compound that is characterized as volatile is one that readily evaporates at low temperatures. This means that the compound has a tendency to transition from a liquid to a vapor state with relative ease under conditions that might not be extreme. Volatility is influenced by factors such as the compound's molecular structure and the intermolecular forces present; weaker intermolecular forces typically lead to higher volatility.

For instance, many common solvents, such as alcohols or some hydrocarbons, can evaporate rapidly when exposed to open air, often at room temperature. This property is particularly relevant in applications involving pesticides, fragrances, or fuels, where rapid evaporation is either beneficial or critical. Understanding volatility is important for selecting appropriate substances for specific applications in turf and ornamental management, such as in the application of herbicides or treatments that require rapid drying.

In contrast, the other characteristics listed do not describe volatility. Dissolving quickly in water pertains to solubility, while remaining solid at high temperatures relates to a substance's melting point. High solubility in oil describes a non-polar interaction rather than an evaporation tendency. Therefore, the defining feature of volatility is the ability of a compound to evaporate quickly at low temperatures.