Which factor is known to affect the efficacy of fumigation?

Which factor is known to affect the efficacy of fumigation?

• A. Humidity levels only
• B. Concentration of the active ingredient only
• C. Temperature
• D. Duration of exposure only

Answer: (C)

Temperature is a critical factor that affects the efficacy of fumigation because it influences the volatility of the fumigant and the biological activity of the pests being targeted. Higher temperatures generally increase the effectiveness of fumigants as they enhance the penetration of the gas into the materials being treated and improve the sensitivity of the pests to the active ingredients. This leads to a more effective fumigation process, resulting in higher mortality rates of the target organisms. In contrast, lower temperatures can hinder the process, as they may slow down the diffusion of the fumigant and decrease the overall effectiveness. Additionally, some pests may become dormant or less active in cooler conditions, making them less susceptible to the fumigant. Humidity and concentration of the active ingredient are also important factors, but they do not have the broad influence that temperature does on the overall effectiveness of a fumigation operation. Duration of exposure is critical too, but without the right temperature, even the optimal duration may not lead to successful pest control. Thus, temperature plays a foundational role in achieving effective fumigation outcomes.

Temperature is a critical factor that affects the efficacy of fumigation because it influences the volatility of the fumigant and the biological activity of the pests being targeted. Higher temperatures generally increase the effectiveness of fumigants as they enhance the penetration of the gas into the materials being treated and improve the sensitivity of the pests to the active ingredients. This leads to a more effective fumigation process, resulting in higher mortality rates of the target organisms.

In contrast, lower temperatures can hinder the process, as they may slow down the diffusion of the fumigant and decrease the overall effectiveness. Additionally, some pests may become dormant or less active in cooler conditions, making them less susceptible to the fumigant.

Humidity and concentration of the active ingredient are also important factors, but they do not have the broad influence that temperature does on the overall effectiveness of a fumigation operation. Duration of exposure is critical too, but without the right temperature, even the optimal duration may not lead to successful pest control. Thus, temperature plays a foundational role in achieving effective fumigation outcomes.