Texas Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

What describes the phenomenon of pesticide absorption through the skin?

1. Transdermal absorption

2. Pesticide diffusion

3. Skin permeability

4. Allergic reaction

The correct answer is: Transdermal absorption

Transdermal absorption specifically refers to the process by which substances, in this case, pesticides, penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream. This phenomenon is significant in understanding how pesticides can affect human health and safety, particularly for applicators who may come into direct contact with chemicals during their work. Recognizing this absorption is crucial for implementing safety measures, such as wearing appropriate protective clothing, to minimize skin exposure. Understanding transdermal absorption helps in assessing the potential risks associated with various pesticides, as some chemicals may more readily penetrate skin depending on their physical and chemical properties. While pesticide diffusion relates to the movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration, it is a broader term that does not specifically address the mechanism of how these substances are absorbed through the skin. Skin permeability describes the ability of substances to pass through the skin but does not inherently denote the process of absorption. An allergic reaction is a response by the immune system to a substance, which is unrelated to the absorption mechanism. Thus, transdermal absorption is the most accurate description of the process of pesticide absorption through the skin.