Which condition is NOT likely to increase leaching of pesticides?

Leaching of pesticides refers to the process by which these chemicals are washed out of the soil and into groundwater or surface water, often as a result of water movement through the soil. Conditions that can influence leaching include soil type, moisture levels, and organic matter content.

A clayey soil with high organic matter is generally less likely to promote leaching of pesticides. Clay soils tend to have a high cation exchange capacity, which means they can retain nutrients and pesticides more effectively. The presence of organic matter enhances this retention because organic materials can bind with pesticides, making them less mobile. Therefore, the combination of clayey texture and high organic content promotes the retention of pesticides in the soil, reducing their likelihood of leaching.

Conversely, conditions such as low organic matter and high rainfall usually increase leaching potential. Soils with low organic matter lack the ability to hold onto pesticides, while high rainfall can cause significant water movement through the soil, washing pesticides away more quickly. A low water table may also provide a more stable environment for pesticides to remain in the soil rather than leaching into groundwater.

Therefore, the condition that is NOT likely to increase leaching of pesticides is the presence of clayey high-organic matter soil, making this the correct