Virginia Commercial Pesticide Applicators CORE Exam

What impact does high temperature have on pesticide drift?

1. It decreases evaporation rates

2. It increases pesticide volatility

3. It enhances adhesion to surfaces

4. It reduces pesticide effectiveness

The correct answer is: It increases pesticide volatility

High temperatures influence pesticide behavior significantly, particularly by increasing pesticide volatility. When temperatures rise, the kinetic energy of molecules in the pesticide also increases, which can result in more molecules escaping into the air. This heightened volatility allows for a greater potential for pesticide drift, meaning that pesticides can more easily become airborne and travel beyond the target application area. Increased volatility is particularly important to consider during application, as it can lead to unintended exposure of non-target organisms and environments, diminishing the effectiveness of the pesticide on the intended pests and potentially causing harm to beneficial species. Understanding this relationship between temperature and pesticide behavior is crucial for effective and responsible pesticide application, ensuring that the chemicals remain in the intended area of treatment while minimizing negative environmental impact.