What characteristic of ester formulations increases their volatility?

The correct answer highlights a fundamental characteristic of ester formulations—that their lower molecular weight contributes to their increased volatility. Volatility refers to how easily a substance evaporates at room temperature. Ester formulations often have relatively low molecular weights, which directly correlates to their high volatility.

Lower molecular weight compounds generally require less energy to transition from a liquid state to a gaseous state, making them more prone to evaporate. This means that when applying these formulations, they are more likely to vaporize quickly and potentially move off-site due to wind or other environmental factors.

While other characteristics mentioned may influence the behavior of these formulations in different ways, such as solubility or concentration, they do not directly connect to volatility in the same manner as molecular weight does. Understanding the role of molecular weight in determining volatility is crucial for proper application and management of these compounds in various environments.