Texas Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

Which of these factors does not influence pesticide drift?

1. Particle size

2. Nozzle design and orientation

3. Temperature

4. Pollution

The correct answer is: Pollution

Pesticide drift refers to the airborne movement of pesticides away from the target area during or after application, which can result in unintended exposure to non-target areas. The factors that influence pesticide drift are typically related to the physical properties of the pesticide application and environmental conditions. Particle size plays a significant role because smaller droplets are more likely to be carried by wind and are more susceptible to evaporation. Thus, finer particles can drift further than larger ones. Similarly, nozzle design and orientation affect the size and distribution of the spray pattern, influencing how the pesticide is released and its potential trajectory. Environmental conditions such as temperature can alter the behavior of the spray; for example, higher temperatures can increase droplet evaporation and thus increase the likelihood of drift. Pollution, while it may affect the environment in general, does not directly influence the mechanics of pesticide drift. It does not change how the pesticide is applied or how the environmental conditions interact with the application, making it an irrelevant factor in the context of pesticide drift compared to the others listed.