North Carolina Pesticide Application Practice Test

What is the function of a surfactant in pesticide application?

1. To enhance the pesticide's shelf life

2. To facilitate easier application and absorption by surfaces

3. To reduce the cost of pesticide formulations

4. To increase the environmental impact of the pesticide

The correct answer is: To facilitate easier application and absorption by surfaces

A surfactant plays a critical role in pesticide application by enhancing the ability of the pesticide to spread and adhere to surfaces. Surfactants reduce the surface tension of the liquid pesticide, allowing it to cover more area effectively and penetrate the surfaces of plants or pests more efficiently. This increased coverage improves the likelihood that the pesticide will make contact with the target organism, thereby enhancing its effectiveness. In addition to improving application ease, surfactants can also aid in the absorption of the pesticide into plant tissues, enabling better uptake and distribution within the plant. This means that the pesticide can work more effectively against pests or diseases, leading to a more successful application overall. While other choices reference shelf life, cost reduction, and environmental impact, they do not accurately describe the primary role of surfactants in the context of pesticide application. Surfactants are not primarily designed to extend shelf life, lower costs, or intentionally increase environmental impact. Instead, their main function is to facilitate a more effective and efficient application process.