Oklahoma Applicators License Core Practice Exam

Which type of adjuvant is effective at reducing drift?

1. Penetrators

2. Spray modifiers

3. Foaming agents and thickeners

4. Emulsifiers

The correct answer is: Foaming agents and thickeners

The correct choice, which emphasizes the use of foaming agents and thickeners, stems from their role in modifying the physical properties of the spray mixture. By increasing the viscosity of the spray solution, these adjuvants help to reduce the potential for drift. When a solution is thicker, it is less likely to atomize into tiny droplets that can be carried away by wind. This results in larger droplets that settle more quickly and minimize the chances of drifting during application. Therefore, foaming agents and thickeners effectively enhance the control over the direction and dispersion of the spray, promoting more targeted application and decreasing the risk of unintentional pesticide movement away from the intended area. In contrast, penetrators are designed to help pesticides absorb into plant surfaces, spray modifiers improve the overall effectiveness of sprays in different environmental conditions, and emulsifiers aid in mixing oil and water-based products but do not specifically focus on reducing drift.