The carrier in some pesticide formulations may absorb moisture, which can change the product flow rate. What practice should be done as a result?

• A. Calibrate application devices often.
• B. Store the product at higher humidity.
• C. Ignore changes in flow rate.
• D. Use a larger nozzle to compensate.

Answer: (A)

Moisture absorbed by the carrier can change how the product flows through the equipment, so the amount delivered per unit time can drift from the intended rate. Calibrating application devices regularly measures the actual output and lets you adjust to maintain the labeled rate, even when moisture levels change. This keeps application accurate and consistent, protecting efficacy and reducing drift. Storing at higher humidity would increase moisture uptake and worsen the problem. Ignoring flow changes is unsafe because it can lead to under- or over-application. Using a larger nozzle would change spray characteristics and may not correct the true flow rate, potentially creating other issues.