Which factors influence spray drift during pesticide application?

Which factors influence spray drift during pesticide application?

• A. Wind speed and direction
• B. All of the above
• C. Droplet size
• D. Nozzle height

Answer: (B)

Spray drift happens when droplets are moved away from the target by air flow and droplet behavior. Wind speed and direction shape how far and in what direction droplets travel after release; stronger winds and crosswinds increase drift distance. Droplet size matters because smaller droplets are more easily carried by air and stay suspended longer, while larger droplets settle faster and drift less. Nozzle height affects drift because a higher boom means droplets travel through more air before reaching the target, giving wind more opportunity to move them off target. Since each of these factors influences drift, all of the above is the best choice. To reduce drift, use coarser droplets, keep the nozzle height as low as feasible, and spray under favorable wind conditions with appropriate nozzle selection and pressure.

Spray drift happens when droplets are moved away from the target by air flow and droplet behavior. Wind speed and direction shape how far and in what direction droplets travel after release; stronger winds and crosswinds increase drift distance. Droplet size matters because smaller droplets are more easily carried by air and stay suspended longer, while larger droplets settle faster and drift less. Nozzle height affects drift because a higher boom means droplets travel through more air before reaching the target, giving wind more opportunity to move them off target. Since each of these factors influences drift, all of the above is the best choice. To reduce drift, use coarser droplets, keep the nozzle height as low as feasible, and spray under favorable wind conditions with appropriate nozzle selection and pressure.