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Particulates

Definition

Particulates refer to tiny solid or liquid particles suspended in the air. They can come from natural sources like dust or wildfires, but also from human activities such as industrial emissions or vehicle exhaust.

Analogy

Imagine particulates as glitter floating in the air during a concert. Just like glitter particles can be seen and felt when they settle on your skin or clothes, particulates can be visible and have physical effects when we breathe them in.

Related terms

PM2.5: This stands for "particulate matter 2.5 micrometers or smaller" and refers to fine particles that can penetrate deep into our lungs.

Air Quality Index (AQI): A measurement used to indicate how polluted the air is based on levels of various pollutants including particulates.

Respiratory Diseases: Long-term exposure to high levels of particulates can lead to respiratory issues such as asthma, bronchitis, or even lung cancer.