Which type of exposure is characterized as short-term exposure?

Acute exposure is characterized as short-term exposure because it involves exposure to a substance for a limited duration, typically a matter of hours or days. This type of exposure can lead to immediate and sometimes severe health effects due to a high dose over a brief period. In the context of pest control and toxicology, understanding acute exposure is critical as it helps professionals gauge the immediate risks associated with chemicals or pesticides in various environments.

In contrast, chronic exposure refers to continuous or repeated exposure over an extended period, often leading to long-term effects. Prolonged exposure implies a duration that extends beyond a brief period but does not necessarily match the immediate impact associated with acute exposure. Severe exposure could imply a high concentration or harmful situation, but it doesn't specifically denote the duration characteristic of acute exposure. Hence, acute exposure is precisely defined by its short-term nature, making it the correct choice.