What type of pesticide is likely to runoff with water?

The correct choice is persistent pesticides because these substances are designed to remain active in the environment for an extended period. Their longevity means that they are more likely to be carried away by water runoff, especially following rainfall or irrigation, when they can potentially contaminate nearby water sources or adjacent land areas.

Persistent pesticides often include certain herbicides and insecticides that resist degradation, allowing them to remain effective longer in the environment. This characteristic also raises concerns regarding environmental impact, as these chemicals can accumulate in soil and water, posing risks to non-target organisms.

In contrast, non-persistent pesticides break down more quickly due to environmental factors such as microbial action, sunlight, and water, which makes them less likely to contribute to runoff during heavy rain. Selective herbicides target specific plants and are usually designed to limit their effects on other species, but their persistence in the environment can vary. Insect growth regulators are focused on disrupting the life cycle of pests and typically act in a more targeted manner, leading to less likelihood of runoff compared to persistent pesticides.