What type of environment is most likely to experience leeching of pesticides?

Sandy soil is characterized by its large particle size and good drainage capacity. This means that when pesticides are applied to sandy soil, they tend to move quickly through the soil profile due to gravity, making it more susceptible to leaching. Leaching occurs when water, either from rainfall or irrigation, carries the pesticides downward through the soil, potentially reaching groundwater or contaminating nearby water sources.

In contrast, clay soil has very small particles that compact tightly together, making it less permeable and reducing the speed at which pesticides can move through it. Loamy soil, a mixture of sand, silt, and clay, provides a balanced environment that can retain moisture and nutrients better than sandy soil. Peaty soil, which is rich in organic matter, absorbs water and can hold onto applied chemicals more effectively, leading to lower leaching potential.

Therefore, sandy soil is indeed the type of environment most likely to experience leaching of pesticides due to its rapid drainage and lower retention of chemicals compared to other soil types.