What do thickeners do in pesticide formulations?

Thickeners play a crucial role in pesticide formulations by increasing the viscosity of the product. This increased viscosity helps improve the adherence of the pesticide to plant surfaces, ensuring that the active ingredients remain in contact with the target pests for a longer period. This enhanced stickiness is particularly important for achieving effective pest control, as it prevents the pesticide from runoff due to rain or irrigation and helps maintain the effectiveness of the treatment.

While the other options, such as enhancing color, lowering evaporation rates, or reducing cost, might seem relevant in different contexts, they do not accurately represent the primary function of thickeners in pesticide formulations. The main goal of using thickeners is to optimize the application and efficacy of the pesticide, making the correct choice focused on viscosity and adherence.