Oklahoma Service Technician Practice Exam

Which type of pesticide formulation is likely to have a lower drift hazard?

1. Aerosol spray

2. Wettable powder

3. Granules

4. Liquid concentrate

The correct answer is: Granules

Granules are known for having a lower drift hazard compared to other pesticide formulations. This is primarily due to their composition and application method. Granules are solid particles that are larger and heavier than liquid formulations, which means they are less likely to become airborne during application. When applied, they tend to stay where they are placed, minimizing the chance of drift caused by wind or other environmental factors. In contrast, aerosol sprays, wettable powders, and liquid concentrates can create finer droplets or particles that are more susceptible to being carried away by air currents. This can lead to unintentional exposure to non-target areas, which is a key concern in pest management practices. Therefore, the use of granules is a preferred option in situations where drift control is critical.