Oregon Pesticide Practice Test

True or false: In a rotary spreader, lighter granules are thrown farther than heavier ones.

1. True

2. False

3. Only under high humidity

4. Depends on the type of spreader

The correct answer is: True

In a rotary spreader, lighter granules are indeed thrown farther than heavier ones due to the mechanics of how the spreader distributes materials. Rotary spreaders operate by using a rotating disk that flings the granules outward as it spins. The centrifugal force generated by this rotation causes the granules to disperse outward at a certain distance from the spreader. Lighter granules, having less mass, can achieve greater velocities and distances when propelled from the rotating disk. They are more easily carried by the wind and released with less force needed to overcome inertia, allowing them to travel farther compared to heavier granules, which may not achieve the same distance due to their greater mass and weight. Heavier granules are more likely to fall quickly to the ground and not travel as far because they are subject to gravitational pull more intensely than lighter granules. In the context of the other options, the statement wouldn’t be dependent on humidity or the type of spreader because the basic principle of weight and dispersal in a rotary mechanism remains constant, regardless of environmental factors or the specific make of the equipment.