One step to reduce the movement of particles off the application site is to use _____________.

• A. a higher sprayer pressure
• B. nozzles with smaller spray angles
• C. a nozzle screen with a check valve
• D. nozzles producing larger spray droplets

Answer: (D)

Droplet size is the key factor in drift control. Using nozzles that produce larger spray droplets reduces the movement of particles off the application site because heavier droplets have a greater tendency to settle quickly and are less easily carried by wind. Finer droplets stay suspended longer and can travel far beyond the target, increasing off-site movement.

So, opting for larger droplets directly tackles drift by increasing the drop size and settling speed. Higher pressure tends to produce smaller droplets and can actually increase drift, while spray-angle adjustments or a nozzle screen with a valve don’t address drift as effectively. Keep in mind this trade-off with coverage, but for reducing off-target movement, larger droplets are the best single step.