Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) Practice Exam

What role do inactive ingredients play in a pesticide formulation?

1. Provide the mode of action

2. Enhance safety for users

3. Deliver active ingredients more efficiently

4. Increase the toxicity of the product

The correct answer is: Deliver active ingredients more efficiently

Inactive ingredients in a pesticide formulation play a crucial role in delivering the active ingredients more efficiently. These ingredients are not responsible for the pesticidal action but serve various functions that aid in the overall effectiveness and application of the product. For instance, they can improve the formulation's stability, help dissolve the active ingredients, facilitate the even distribution of the product when applied, and enhance the penetration of the active ingredients into the targeted surfaces or organisms. The efficiency of the delivery can significantly impact how well the pesticide works, ensuring that the active ingredients reach their intended targets effectively. By optimizing the formulation with appropriate inactive ingredients, manufacturers can improve the pesticide's performance in the field.