The full form of air quality PM is Particulate Matter.
Particulate Matter (PM) is a complex mixture of extremely small particles and liquid droplets suspended in the air. These particles can include acids (such as nitrates and sulfates), organic chemicals, metals, and soil or dust particles. The size of particulate matter is directly linked to its potential for causing health problems. Small particles, especially those less than 10 micrometers in diameter, can get deep into your lungs and even into your bloodstream.
There are generally two size categories of PM that are of most concern:
- PM10: Inhalable coarse particles, with diameters that are generally 10 micrometers and smaller. These include particles from crushing or grinding operations and dust stirred up by vehicles on roads.
- PM2.5: Fine inhalable particles, with diameters that are generally 2.5 micrometers and smaller. These are produced from all types of combustion, including motor vehicles, power plants, residential wood burning, etc.
Both PM10 and PM2.5 can pose significant health risks. PM2.5 is generally considered more dangerous because it can penetrate deeper into the lungs and bloodstream.
