SPCB Applicator Practice Exam

Minimizing drift during pesticide application is crucial for ensuring that the chemicals remain targeted and do not unintentionally affect non-target areas or organisms. Increasing droplet size is effective in minimizing drift because larger droplets are less susceptible to being carried away by wind currents. When droplets are larger, they tend to fall to the ground more quickly, reducing the chance that they will become airborne and drift away from the intended application site.

Smaller droplets, such as a fine mist, can easily be lifted and carried by even light winds, increasing the potential for drift. This is why using fine mist sprays is not advantageous when trying to minimize drift. Similarly, although increasing dripper speed may seem like it could help, it can actually lead to the production of smaller, more drift-prone droplets. Reducing application duration does not directly influence the size of the droplets or their drift potential, and can lead to insufficient coverage or application of the pesticide.

In conclusion, increasing droplet size is an effective strategy for minimizing drift, as it helps ensure that more of the pesticide reaches the target area without being dispersed by environmental factors.