If the volume median diameter (VDM) of a spray is 300 micrometers, what distribution of particle sizes can be expected?

The volume median diameter (VDM) is an important concept in spray technology, particularly in aerial application of pesticides. It represents the diameter at which half of the spray volume consists of droplets that are larger than the specified size, while the other half consists of droplets that are smaller. Therefore, when the VDM is identified as 300 micrometers, it indicates that half of the total volume of the spray droplets will have diameters greater than 300 micrometers, and the other half will have diameters less than 300 micrometers.

This characterization of distribution allows for a clearer understanding of how the droplet sizes will impact their behavior in the atmosphere and their effectiveness in pest control. A uniform distribution around the median effectively results in an equal proportion of droplet volume above and below the median size, which is exactly what answer choice C conveys.

The other options suggest different proportions, which would not appropriately reflect the nature of a volume median diameter, as none of them align with the principle that precisely half of the volume should be on either side of the median. Therefore, the proper interpretation of VDM leads to the conclusion that half of the volume is found in droplets greater than 300 micrometers, while the other half is