What factors can affect the amount of chemical deposited on a target, excluding drift or evaporation?

The concentration of pesticide and the rate of discharge are crucial factors that significantly influence the amount of chemical deposited on a target. Higher concentrations of pesticide result in a more potent mix, ensuring that a sufficient amount of the active ingredient reaches the target pest. Additionally, the rate of discharge—referring to the speed and volume at which the pesticide is released from the application equipment—also affects deposition. A higher discharge rate means that more pesticide can be delivered to the target area in a shorter amount of time, increasing the likelihood of effective pest management.

In contrast, while other options touch on important aspects of pest management, they do not directly determine the volume of pesticide that reaches the target. For instance, the type of pest targeted might influence the formulation of the pesticide chosen but does not directly impact the amount deposited. Similarly, weather conditions can play a role in the overall effectiveness of the application but are more closely related to factors like drift or evaporation. Lastly, the timing of application may affect pest activity and susceptibility but does not alter the physical characteristics of the pesticide application itself, such as how much is deposited at the target location.