What property of 2,4-D increases its danger when applied on hot days?

The property of 2,4-D that increases its danger when applied on hot days is its high volatility. High volatility means that the chemical can easily convert from a liquid to a vapor at elevated temperatures. When the temperature rises, more of the pesticide can become airborne, increasing the risk of drift. This drift allows the pesticide to move from its intended target area to non-target areas, which can harm desirable plants, wildlife, and potentially affect nearby human populations.

Understanding the volatility of herbicides like 2,4-D is crucial for effective and safe application, particularly during hot weather conditions. Being aware of this property helps applicators take necessary precautions, such as choosing cooler times of the day for application or employing mitigation strategies to reduce drift, ensuring that the herbicide only impacts the intended plants.