QAL Laws & Regulation Practice Exam

What does the "mode of action" of a pesticide refer to?

1. The method by which it is applied

2. The way it kills the target pest

3. The effective duration of pest control

4. The chemical structure of the pesticide

The correct answer is: The way it kills the target pest

The term "mode of action" specifically refers to the way a pesticide interacts with a pest to achieve its lethal effect. This encapsulates the biochemical process or method through which the pesticide disrupts essential functions within the target pest, ultimately leading to its death. For instance, some pesticides might interfere with neural pathways, while others may disrupt digestion or respiration. Understanding the mode of action is crucial for proper pest management because it allows for the selection of pesticides that target specific pests while minimizing harm to beneficial organisms. It also helps in developing resistance management strategies, ensuring that pests do not become immune to certain chemicals. The other options do not accurately define "mode of action": - The method of application relates to how the pesticide is delivered (e.g., spray, granules) rather than how it functions internally in the pest. - The effective duration of pest control is about how long the pesticide will remain effective against pests after application, which does not delve into the biological interaction between the pesticide and the pest. - The chemical structure pertains to the molecular composition of the pesticide, which can influence its properties and effectiveness but does not describe the functional mechanism behind its action against pests.