What are dust formulations typically made of?

Dust formulations are primarily composed of insecticide mixed with inert diluents. The insecticide is the active ingredient that targets and controls pests, while the inert diluents serve several important functions. They help to carry the active ingredient, improve the dust's flowability, reduce clumping, and facilitate even distribution when applied. The inert materials are typically non-toxic and purposefully chosen to enhance the efficacy of the insecticide without posing additional hazards.

In contrast, combining insecticide with water, as mentioned in the first option, would create a liquid formulation rather than a dust. The third option, suggesting a mix of liquid pesticide and sand, is also inconsistent with the fundamental characteristics of dusts, as dusts are not liquids and do not include liquid components. Lastly, while boric acid is a common active ingredient in some pest control products, stating it's the only component disregards the standard formulation practice that usually includes additives or other components for effective delivery and application. This makes the composition of dust formulations ultimately reliant on both the insecticide and inert diluents for effective pest management.