Understanding Particulate Matter Pollution

Particulate matter are tiny particles in the air that can cause serious health problems when inhaled, especially affecting the respiratory system.
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Application
Air Pollution | Health Effects | Pollution Control | PM2.5 | Respiratory Health
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Particulate Matter FAQ


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What is particle matter?

Particulate matter is the sum of all solid and liquid particles suspended in air many of which are hazardous. This complex mixture includes both organic and inorganic particles, such as dust, pollen, soot , smoke, and liquid droplets. These particles vary greatly in size, composition, and origin.

What is particulate matter?

Particulate matter is the sum of all solid and liquid particles suspended in air, many of which are hazardous. This complex mixture contains for instance dust, pollen, soot, smoke, and liquid droplets.

What is particle pollution?

Particle pollution is the term for a mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets found in the air. These include "inhalable coarse particles," with diameters between 2.5 micrometers and 10 micrometers, and "fine particles," 2.5 micrometers and smaller.

What are the two main components of particulate matter in Europe?

On average, the two main components of particulate matter in Europe are sulphate and organic matter. This is true both for fine particles ( PM 2.5) and for coarse and fine particles combined ( PM 10 ). However, near roads mineral dust is also a main component of PM 10 .

What is particulate matter (PM)?

Keywords: PM2.5, disease, physiology, particulate matter, air pollution Particulate matter (PM) are solid compounds suspended in air that are sufficiently small to be inhaled ( Figure 1 ). PM is categorized by particle diameter (measured in μm); PM0.1, PM2.5 and PM10 whilst ambient concentration is usually quantified as μg/m 3.

What is atmospheric particulate matter?

Particulates or atmospheric particulate matter (see below for other names) are microscopic particles of solid or liquid matter suspended in the air. The term aerosol commonly refers to the particulate/air mixture, as opposed to the particulate matter alone. Sources of particulate matter can be natural or anthropogenic.

Particulate Matter References

If you want to know more about Particulate Matter, consider exploring links below:

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