What are the main elements of a proper sprayer calibration record?

• A. Date, operator, equipment, nozzle type, travel speed, pressure, GPM, swath width, calculated rate per acre, final rate
• B. Date, weather conditions, crop type, target pest
• C. Pesticide brand, batch number, application site
• D. Operator name and signature only

Answer: (A)

A proper sprayer calibration record captures the actual setup and operating parameters that determine how much product is applied per acre, so you can verify accuracy and maintain accountability. The date and the operator identify when and who performed the application, while the equipment and nozzle type document the physical setup used. Travel speed and system pressure are the factors that influence how much liquid moves through the nozzle in a given time, and the GPM (gallons per minute) states the actual flow rate produced by the pump. Swath width tells you how wide each pass covers, and together with travel speed, it helps calculate the area covered per pass. The calculated rate per acre shows the intended application rate based on the calibration, and the final rate records what was actually applied per acre.

These elements are essential because they let you verify that the target rate was met and that the sprayer is functioning correctly. The other options omit critical pieces—such as nozzle type, flow rate, swath width, and final application rate—so they don’t provide the complete, verifiable record required for proper calibration.