Indiana Pesticide Applicator Core Practice Exam

Which of the following is a disadvantage of pesticide suspensions?

1. Easy to remove from tanks

2. No agitation required

3. Difficult to handle without agitation

4. Non-abrasive nature

The correct answer is: Difficult to handle without agitation

Pesticide suspensions consist of solid particles dispersed in a liquid, and one key characteristic of these products is that they require constant agitation to remain evenly mixed before and during application. Without sufficient agitation, the solid particles can settle to the bottom, leading to an uneven application where some areas may receive too much active ingredient while others receive too little. This can significantly reduce the effectiveness of the pesticide and can also create challenges in achieving proper dosing. The difficulty in handling suspension formulations without agitation is a notable disadvantage as it necessitates the use of specialized equipment (like agitators or mixers) to maintain a uniform mixture. In contrast, other types of formulations may not have the same requirement for agitation, making them simpler and more convenient to use. This requirement for agitation is crucial for applicators to understand, as it directly impacts both the performance of the product and the efficiency of application, underlining the need for proper mixing throughout the application process.