Which property of PCBs contributes to their volatization into the atmosphere?

The property of PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) that contributes to their volatilization into the atmosphere is low water solubility. Low water solubility means that these compounds do not easily dissolve in water, which tends to keep them out of aqueous environments like rivers, lakes, and groundwater. Instead, they have a tendency to partition into air, especially under certain conditions such as heat or low humidity. This tendency to escape from water bodies into the atmosphere results in their volatilization.

Additionally, since PCBs are persistent organic pollutants with significant chemical stability, they can remain in the environment for long periods. Their low water solubility combined with stability makes them more likely to enter the air compared to more soluble substances, which would typically remain in water. Therefore, their low water solubility is a critical factor in their ability to volatilize into the atmosphere.