What is calibration?

• A. The process of measuring and adjusting the amount of chemical a sprayer or spreader will apply to the target area.
• B. A method for preparing pesticides.
• C. A procedure to clean equipment.
• D. A measure of pesticide efficacy.

Answer: (A)

Calibration is the process of measuring and adjusting how much chemical a sprayer or spreader will apply to the target area. It ensures the application rate matches the label recommendation, giving consistent coverage while avoiding waste or environmental harm. In practice, you determine output by running a test over a known area or time, measuring how much liquid is dispensed, and calculating the rate (such as gallons per acre or liters per hectare). Then you adjust nozzle type and spacing, pressure, and travel speed so the actual delivery matches the desired rate. Calibration focuses on the delivery system’s accuracy, not on mixing pesticides, cleaning equipment, or judging pesticide efficacy.