Which of the following is NOT a definition of drift?

• A. The pesticide moves off target (even though it may have been properly applied)
• B. A pesticide mix is incorrect and mistakenly applied
• C. A pesticide changes from a solid state to a gas or vapor form
• D. A pesticide adheres to the target

Answer: (D)

Drift is the unwanted movement of pesticide through the air to off-target areas during or just after application, driven by factors like wind, droplet size, nozzle type, and application technique. The option that describes the pesticide sticking to the target is not drift at all—that’s deposition, the intended placement on the target rather than off-target movement. The other scenarios fit drift (off-target movement despite proper application and misapplication due to an incorrect mix), or describe a different process (volatilization is a change from liquid to vapor). Understanding drift helps you think about how to minimize off-target impact by choosing appropriate droplet sizes, controlling spray height, avoiding windy conditions, and ensuring correct application methods.