Texas Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

What happens to pesticide residues over time on treated crops?

1. They increase

2. They remain constant

3. They may degrade

4. They turn into harmless compounds

The correct answer is: They may degrade

Pesticide residues on treated crops do not remain static; instead, they can undergo various processes over time. Degradation is a significant factor in this context. Pesticides are often designed to break down through natural processes such as biological degradation, photodecomposition, or chemical hydrolysis. These processes can reduce the concentration of the pesticide residues present on crops, as microorganisms, sunlight, and moisture can contribute to the breakdown of the chemicals. Over time, environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, and sunlight exposure can significantly influence the rate at which residues degrade. As a result, while some pesticides may degrade rapidly, others may persist longer, depending on their chemical structure and environmental factors. Understanding this degradation process is crucial for pest management and ensuring that the residues on consumable crops fall within safe limits for human consumption and environmental safety.