Why are PM10 and PM2 5 both used?

PM10 is most associated with road dust and construction activities. Wear and tear of brakes and tyres on vehicles and crushing activities at construction sites can all contribute to a rise in PM10. Alternatively, PM2.5 is more associated with fuel burning, industrial combustion processes and vehicle emissions.

How does PM10 particulate matter differ from that called PM2 5?

When discussing particulate matter, the number to the right of the ‘PM’ indicates the aerodynamic diameter of the particles. So, PM10 refers to particles with an aerodynamic diameter smaller than 10 μm, and PM2. 5 refers to particles with an aerodynamic diameter smaller than 2.5 μm.

What are two common types of particulate matter?

EPA groups particle pollution into two categories:

• “Inhalable coarse particles,” such as those found near roadways and dusty industries, are larger than 2.5 micrometers and smaller than 10 micrometers in diameter.
• “Fine particles,” such as those found in smoke and haze, are 2.5 micrometers in diameter and smaller.

What are the different types of particulate matter found in the atmosphere?

Types of atmospheric particles include suspended particulate matter; thoracic and respirable particles; inhalable coarse particles, designated PM10, which are coarse particles with a diameter of 10 micrometers (μm) or less; fine particles, designated PM2.5, with a diameter of 2.5 μm or less; ultrafine particles, with a …

What is PM10 in air?

PM10 is any particulate matter in the air with a diameter of 10 micrometers or less, including smoke, dust, soot, salts, acids, and metals. Particulate matter can also be formed indirectly when gases emitted from motor vehicles and industries undergo chemical reactions in the atmosphere. Various sources include: 4,5.

What does PM10 consist of?

particulate matter
PM10 are the particles with a diameter of 10 micrometers and they are also called fine particles. An environmental expert says that PM10 is also known as respirable particulate matter. Particulate matter is a complex mixture of soot, smoke, metals, nitrates, sulphates, dust water and rubber etc.

What is fine particulate matter PM2 5?

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is an air pollutant that is a concern for people’s health when levels in air are high. PM2.5 are tiny particles in the air that reduce visibility and cause the air to appear hazy when levels are elevated.

What are PM2 5 particles?

The term fine particles, or particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5), refers to tiny particles or droplets in the air that are two and one half microns or less in width. Like inches, meters and miles, a micron is a unit of measurement for distance. There are about 25,000 microns in an inch.