What does drift refer to in pesticide application?

Drift in the context of pesticide application refers specifically to the movement of pesticide particles being carried away from the target area by air currents. This phenomenon can occur during or after a pesticide is applied, especially if environmental conditions such as wind speed are not carefully monitored. When pesticides drift, they can unintentionally affect non-target areas, including neighboring properties, water bodies, and sensitive habitats, potentially leading to environmental damage or non-target organism exposure.

Understanding this concept is crucial for applicators, as they must implement strategies to mitigate drift, ensuring that pesticides remain effective while minimizing unintended consequences on adjacent ecosystems and human health. The other options do not describe drift accurately; they refer to different aspects of pesticide application management, such as the effects of weather or storage practices.