What happens when herbicides volatilize?

When herbicides volatilize, they turn into vapor or gas and can spread beyond the intended treatment area. This process involves the herbicide transitioning from a liquid state into a gaseous state, which could potentially lead to off-target exposure and damage to non-target plants. Volatilization can be influenced by various environmental factors such as temperature and humidity, and it can result in unintended ecological consequences if the vapors drift to areas where they are harmful to desired vegetation. Understanding this phenomenon is critical for effective herbicide application and minimizing negative effects on surrounding ecosystems.