Indirect pesticide applications are characterized by what process?

Indirect pesticide applications refer to situations where the pesticides are not directly targeting the pests, but rather affecting them through other means. This process can include scenarios where pesticides are applied to the environment, plants, or structures, leading to pest control by exposure rather than direct contact. For instance, a pesticide might be sprayed on soil or plants to control a pest population that is feeding on those plants, where the pest consumes the pesticide incidentally through its feeding activity or contact with treated surfaces.

This method is often used in various agricultural and pest management practices where direct application may be impractical or less effective. Insects or other pests may inadvertently come into contact with the pesticide as they interact with their surroundings or host plants. This is a fundamental aspect of integrated pest management, where the goal is to use various methods to achieve pest control while minimizing harm to the environment and non-target organisms.

The other options identify more direct forms of pesticide application where the pesticides are specifically aimed at the pests themselves, which does not align with the characteristics of indirect applications.