How can non-target plants and animals be exposed to pests?

• A. Overuse of water
• B. Drift and overspray
• C. Low temperature
• D. Soil pH

Answer: (B)

Exposure of non-target plants and animals mainly happens when pesticide droplets move away from the target area during application. This drift and overspray means wind-blown or misdirected spray can land on nearby vegetation, water, or wildlife, causing unintended exposure. That’s why proper application practices—such as selecting appropriate nozzles and droplet sizes, keeping the boom low enough, applying under favorable weather conditions, and using buffer zones—are essential to minimize harm to non-target organisms.

Other options don’t describe the immediate exposure route during spraying. Overuse of water can lead to runoff but isn’t the direct mechanism of spray reaching non-targets. Low temperature or soil pH influence how a pesticide behaves after application (like persistence or movement in the environment), rather than how it is exposed to non-target organisms during the spray event.