Aside from external factors, which of the following is the most important in affecting off-target drift?

The size of the spray droplets is crucial in determining off-target drift because smaller droplets can remain suspended in the air for longer periods and be carried farther by wind currents. When droplets are larger, they tend to fall to the ground more quickly, minimizing the likelihood that they will drift away from the intended target area.

In aerial application, reducing off-target drift is vital for ensuring that the agrochemicals reach their intended destinations and do not adversely affect surrounding ecosystems or agricultural areas. The engineering of nozzle designs can influence droplet size, and therefore, understanding this aspect is essential for effective and responsible aerial spraying practices. While ambient temperature, aircraft speed, and the amount of pesticide used can influence the overall application process and effectiveness, they do not directly influence how far the droplets will drift as significantly as droplet size does.