What is the primary characteristic of a temperature inversion in relation to pesticide application?

The primary characteristic of a temperature inversion is that the ground air is cooler than the air above it. In a typical temperature inversion scenario, a layer of warmer air traps cooler air at the surface. This phenomenon can have significant implications for pesticide application.

During a temperature inversion, the cooler air is trapped beneath the warmer layer, leading to reduced air movement and limited dispersion of pesticide particles. This can result in higher concentrations of pesticides at lower altitudes, increasing the likelihood of drift and potential deposition on non-target areas. Understanding this dynamic is crucial for applicators, as it influences both the effectiveness of pesticide applications and environmental safety.

By being aware of temperature inversions and their characteristics, applicators can make more informed decisions about when and how to apply pesticides to minimize negative impacts and maximize efficacy.