Question

What are particulates and are particulates harmful?

Answer 1

Particulate matter, or particle pollution, encompasses various small particles like dust, dirt, and microorganisms suspended in air, which can cause serious respiratory diseases and other health problems. Particles less than 2.5 micrometers (PM2.5) pose a greater risk as they can enter the lungs deeply. The EPA regulates these particles due to their significant health and environmental impact.

Step-by-step explanation:

Particulate matter, also known as particle pollution, is made up of small particles such as dust, dirt, viral particles, and bacteria that are present in the air. These particles are classified based on their size, with particles less than 10 micrometers (PM10) and particularly those less than 2.5 micrometers (PM2.5), being capable of penetrating deeply into the lungs. The presence of particulate matter in the air can lead to various adverse health effects, such as respiratory diseases including pneumonia, bronchitis, and asthma. Furthermore, these particles can combine with ozone at ground level to exacerbate conditions like asthma and chronic bronchitis, especially in children and the elderly. Even more concerning, fine particulate matter may penetrate the respiratory system more deeply, potentially leading to emphysema and lung cancer. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates particulate matter alongside other harmful pollutants due to their significant threat to human and environmental health, as well as their ability to cause property damage.

Answer 2

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.

Particulate matter contains microscopic solids or liquid droplets that are so small that they can be inhaled and cause serious health problems.

Step-by-step explanation:

Exposure to such particles can affect both your lungs and your heart. Numerous scientific studies have linked particle pollution exposure to a variety of problems, including: premature death in people with heart or lung disease. nonfatal heart attacks.