What are the three primary factors that contribute to pesticide spray drift?

The three primary factors that contribute to pesticide spray drift are weather conditions, equipment configurations and operations, and applicator attitude.

Weather conditions are crucial because they can significantly affect how pesticides are dispersed during application. Wind speed and direction can carry spray particles away from the intended target, while temperature and humidity can influence evaporation rates and droplet behavior.

Equipment configurations and operations play a vital role as well, as they determine how pesticides are applied. The type of nozzle used, the pressure settings, and the speed of the application can all impact droplet size, which subsequently influences the potential for drift. Properly configured and well-operated equipment minimizes the likelihood of drift.

Applicator attitude is just as important, as a conscientious applicator is more likely to take precautions to minimize drift, such as checking weather conditions before applying pesticides and being mindful of nearby sensitive areas.

This combination of factors underscores the complexities of managing pesticide application effectively, ensuring that they are used safely and responsibly. The other answer choices introduce elements that may be relevant to pesticide application but do not encompass the critical triad that directly relates to spray drift.