Pest Control Aircraft Pilot Practice Test

Why are smoke generators sometimes unreliable for marking swaths?

1. They fail in windy conditions

2. The smoke moves in the air currents

3. They require frequent refilling

4. They cannot operate in rain

The correct answer is: The smoke moves in the air currents

The reason why smoke generators can be unreliable for marking swaths relates to the behavior of smoke in the atmosphere. When smoke is released, it does not remain stationary; instead, it is subject to the influence of air currents. These currents can cause the smoke to drift unpredictably, making it difficult for pilots to accurately determine the intended path or swath for pest control application. This variability means that even if the smoke generator functions correctly, the actual visual representation may not accurately reflect the aircraft's trajectory due to shifting winds. The other options touch on factors that may affect performance, like environmental conditions or operational requirements, but the core reliability issue hinges on how smoke behaves in changing air conditions, which directly impacts a pilot's ability to use it as a clear reference for swath marking.