Pest Control Technician Practice Exam

What is a contact pesticide?

1. A pesticide that is absorbed through the roots of plants

2. A pesticide effective when directly touched by the pest

3. A pesticide that kills by ingestion

4. A pesticide that works only in the soil

The correct answer is: A pesticide effective when directly touched by the pest

A contact pesticide is defined as a pesticide that is effective when it is directly touched by the pest. This type of pesticide works on the principle that the active ingredients kill or affect the pest upon immediate contact. This means that the effectiveness of the pesticide relies on the pest making direct physical contact with it, as opposed to being ingested or absorbed through another means. For example, many insecticides kill insects like cockroaches or ants when they walk over a treated surface. The rapid action is crucial in controlling pest populations, especially when immediate knockdown is necessary. Understanding this definition is essential for pest control technicians, as it influences how and where these products should be applied for maximum efficacy. The other choices describe different modes of action, such as systemic action or soil-only application, which do not align with the definition of contact pesticides.