Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) Practice Exam

Which of the following statements best describes granules in pest control?

1. They are enclosed gases applied in warehouses

2. They require soil incorporation and constant agitation

3. They are inert pellets requiring irrigation to activate

4. They are liquids mixed with emulsifiers

The correct answer is: They are inert pellets requiring irrigation to activate

Granules in pest control are small, solid particles that often contain active ingredients formulated for pest management. They are typically applied to the soil surface or a targeted area and require moisture, usually from irrigation or rainfall, to activate the active ingredients and release them into the environment for effective pest control. The characteristic of granules needing irrigation to activate is significant because it involves the process of dissolution and dispersion of the active ingredients once they come into contact with moisture. This activation process is essential for granules to perform their intended function, allowing them to control pest populations effectively. Other statements do not accurately reflect the nature of granules. For instance, the description of enclosed gases applied in warehouses does not pertain to granules, as granules are solid and not gaseous. Additionally, granules do not typically require soil incorporation and constant agitation; they can be surface-applied and are designed to disperse with the help of moisture rather than agitation. Lastly, granules are not liquids mixed with emulsifiers, as that description refers more to liquid formulations used in pest control, which behave differently than solid granule formulations.