Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) Practice Exam

What is a distinguishing characteristic of dry flowables (DF)?

1. They are liquids that do not need agitation

2. They are applied dry but must be mixed with water

3. They contain encapsulated active ingredients

4. They are primarily aerosol-based formulations

The correct answer is: They are applied dry but must be mixed with water

Dry flowables (DF) are a type of pesticide formulation that is designed to be applied in a dry form but often requires mixing with water before use. This characteristic allows for a convenient method of application where the product can be transported and stored more efficiently in a dry state and then activated in solution when needed for effective application to target pests. The nature of dry flowables allows them to be easily measured and mixed, leading to uniform distribution of the active ingredient when suspended in water. This mixing step is crucial as it ensures that the active ingredients are properly dissolved and can be effectively delivered to the target area. In contrast to other options, dry flowables are not liquids that do not require agitation, as agitation is typically necessary to ensure an even mixture once combined with water. They do not inherently contain encapsulated active ingredients, which is a feature more commonly associated with microencapsulated products. Additionally, dry flowables are not primarily aerosol-based formulations, as aerosol products are typically in a pressurized container, whereas dry flowables come in a powdered form that requires dilution.