What is the process called when solid particles are dispersed in a liquid for pesticide formulation?

The process of dispersing solid particles in a liquid for the formulation of pesticides is known as a suspension. In a suspension, solid particles are evenly distributed throughout a liquid but are not dissolved. This means that the solid particles can settle over time if the mixture is left undisturbed, requiring agitation before use to ensure even distribution. This characteristic allows for the solid particles to be delivered effectively when applied, particularly in pest control situations where the active ingredient is designed to target specific pests.

In contrast, a solution involves a solute completely dissolving in a solvent, creating a homogeneous mixture without any solid particles. An emulsion is a mixture where two immiscible liquids (like oil and water) are combined with the help of an emulsifier, creating a stable blend that keeps the two liquids from separating. Dispersion is a broader term that refers to the process of distributing particles throughout a medium but does not specifically indicate the particle state or behavior like suspension does. Therefore, the correct term for the process of mounting solid particles in a liquid pesticide formulation is a suspension.