MDARD Michigan Core Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

What is the effect of high air movement on pesticide volatilization?

1. It decreases volatilization

2. It increases volatilization

3. It has no effect on volatilization

4. It causes pesticides to dissolve

The correct answer is: It increases volatilization

High air movement increases pesticide volatilization, which refers to the process by which pesticides transition from a liquid or solid state into a vapor. When air is moving rapidly, it enhances the mixing of the air near the pesticide. This increased movement can lead to a greater rate of evaporation and dispersal of pesticide particles into the atmosphere. Additionally, high air movement helps to carry away the vaporized pesticides, further encouraging the volatilization process by reducing the concentration of pesticides in the nearby air. As a result, the constant removal of vapor allows more of the pesticide to evaporate. Understanding this relationship is important for proper pesticide application, as high air movement can lead to greater losses of the active ingredients before they can effectively target pests, potentially impacting both efficacy and environmental safety.