What signifies that a pesticide is persistent and tightly adsorbs to soil particles?

The correct choice indicates that a pesticide’s tendency to remain in the soil for an extended period and its strong adhesion to soil particles is characterized by particle drift. When pesticides exhibit properties of tight adsorption and persistence, they are less likely to volatilize or leach from the soil and more prone to being transported by soil particles.

In the context of pesticide application, "particle drift" refers to the movement of pesticide droplets or particles carried by wind or other forces, which indicates that the pesticide is not easily broken down or washed away. This characteristic emphasizes the potential for longer-term environmental impact, as these pesticides can accumulate and may affect non-target organisms or even contaminate water sources in the vicinity.

This quality distinguishes persistent pesticides and highlights the importance of careful application methods to minimize unintended dispersion. Understanding this helps applicators make informed decisions on pesticide usage, ensuring that they adhere to best practices for environmental safety.