MDARD Michigan Core Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

How does the size of droplets influence pesticide drift?

1. Smaller droplets have less potential to drift

2. Larger droplets have more potential to drift

3. Droplet size has no effect on drift

4. Smaller droplets are easier to control

The correct answer is: Larger droplets have more potential to drift

The size of droplets significantly influences pesticide drift due to the physical behavior of droplets in the air. Smaller droplets are more susceptible to being carried away by wind and atmospheric conditions because they have a greater surface area-to-volume ratio. This small size allows them to be easily lifted and transported far from the target application site. Conversely, larger droplets tend to fall to the ground more quickly due to their increased weight and inertia, making them less prone to being affected by air movements. Therefore, the potential for drift increases with smaller droplet sizes, as they can remain suspended in the air longer, while larger droplets settle more rapidly. Understanding this relationship helps in selecting appropriate application techniques and equipment to minimize drift and maximize the efficacy of pesticide treatments.