Minnesota Pesticide Applicator Practice Test

Which type of pesticide formulation may contain nearly 100% active ingredient?

1. Aerosols (A)

2. Granules (G)

3. Water-dispersible Granules (WDG)

4. Ultra Low Volume (ULV)

The correct answer is: Ultra Low Volume (ULV)

Ultra Low Volume (ULV) pesticide formulations are designed to contain a very high concentration of active ingredients, often approaching nearly 100%. This makes them particularly effective for applications where a small amount of the formulation is sufficient to achieve desired pest control results. ULV formulations are often delivered as fine droplets, which allows for coverage over a larger area with minimal total volume of the product used, enhancing application efficiency. In contrast, other formulations such as aerosols typically contain a propellant or solvent that dilutes the active ingredient, which reduces the concentration of the active component. Granules and water-dispersible granules may also carry lower concentrations of active ingredients, as they are often formulated with inert materials to ensure proper distribution and application methods. This distinction highlights why ULV formulations are favored in specific situations where high potency and effective dispersal are needed, making them particularly useful for controlling pests in large areas or in challenging environments.