Which of the following best defines the term "toxicology"?

The term "toxicology" is best defined as the science of poisons and their effects on living organisms. This definition captures the essence of toxicology, which involves studying the adverse effects that substances can have on biological systems, including humans, animals, and the environment.

Toxicology encompasses various aspects, including the identification of toxic substances, understanding their mechanisms of action, determining their effects at different exposure levels, and evaluating the risks associated with these exposures. This field is critical for assessing the safety of chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and environmental pollutants, helping to inform regulations and safety guidelines.

While the other options touch on related areas, they do not encompass the full scope of toxicology. The study of safe chemical use relates more to safety protocols rather than the inherent effects of toxic substances. The analysis of chemical compounds for industrial use focuses specifically on their application and utility, rather than their impact on health. Finally, examining biological impacts of environmental changes is more aligned with ecology and environmental science than with the specific study of poisons and toxic effects.