Spill responders sometimes use dispersants to help clean up an oil spill. A dispersant is a chemical that breaks oil down into small droplets. Combined with wind and wave action, dispersants allow spilled oil to biodegrade more rapidly.

How do responders tell if a dispersant application is effective?

Dispersant Application This photo shows the application of dispersant by fixed-wing aircraft.

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Revised: July 17, 2001
Office of Response and Restoration, National Ocean Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration