Final answer:
A "synergistic effect" is when the (b) combined effect is greater than the sum of individual effects, crucial in environmental toxicology for understanding the impact of combined pollutants on health and ecosystems.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term "synergistic effect" refers to a scenario where the combined effect of two or more substances is greater than the sum of their individual effects. This means that when certain chemicals or agents are combined, their toxic effects can amplify each other, making the mixture more harmful than either substance on its own. In contrast, antagonistic effects reduce the effectiveness or enhance the negative consequences of another substance. Synergistic and antagonistic interactions are vital considerations in the field of environmental toxicology.
An example of a synergistic effect is when two hormones in the body, such as FSH and estrogens, work together to amplify the response required for the maturation of female ova. In environmental toxicology, considering the synergistic effects of pollutants is also essential for understanding their potential impact on human health and the ecosystem.
To answer your question, the synergistic effect is defined as: b. The combined effect is greater than the sum of individual effects.