Illinois Pesticide Applicator Practice Test

What is the primary purpose of surfactants in pesticide formulations?

1. Enhance the pesticide aroma

2. Stabilize pesticide mixtures

3. Improve pesticide spreading

4. Increase pesticide toxicity

The correct answer is: Improve pesticide spreading

The primary purpose of surfactants in pesticide formulations is to improve pesticide spreading. Surfactants are compounds that lower the surface tension of a liquid, which allows the pesticide to spread more evenly across plant surfaces and penetrate through waxy leaves or hard-to-reach areas. This enhanced spreading ensures better coverage of the target area, leading to more effective pest control. When a pesticide can cover a surface more uniformly, it increases the likelihood that pests will come into contact with the pesticide, thus improving its efficacy. While stabilizing pesticide mixtures can be a function of some additives, the key role of surfactants goes beyond just stabilization; it primarily concerns enhancing the application and effectiveness through reduced surface tension. Surfactants do not enhance aroma or directly increase toxicity; instead, they facilitate better adhesion and distribution of the pesticide on the target organisms or surfaces.