Minnesota Pesticide Applicator Practice Test

Are large spray droplets more or less likely to drift than smaller ones?

1. More likely

2. Less likely

3. Equally likely

4. Depends on the pesticide

The correct answer is: Less likely

Large spray droplets are less likely to drift compared to smaller droplets due to their size and weight. Larger droplets have a greater mass, which means they are more affected by gravity and less influenced by environmental factors such as wind or air turbulence. Because they are heavier, they tend to fall to the ground more quickly and thus have a reduced potential for being carried away over long distances by wind. This characteristic makes large droplets more reliable for targeted applications, as they are less prone to drift away from the intended treatment area. Smaller droplets, while useful for achieving better coverage and penetration into plant foliage, are more susceptible to drifting. They can be easily transported by air currents, which can lead to unintended application in areas outside the target zone. Therefore, understanding the relationship between droplet size and drift potential is crucial for effective and responsible pesticide application.