A fume is generally considered to be a smoke, vapor, or gas that is irritating or offensive. It can also refer to a suspension of fine solid particles in a gas, often noxious.
Essentially, fumes are airborne pollutants that can be harmful or unpleasant to breathe. They are commonly associated with industrial processes, chemical reactions, and combustion.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Gaseous Fumes: These consist primarily of vapors and gases released from substances. Examples include fumes from solvents, paints, or chemical reactions. They often have a distinct odor.
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Particulate Fumes: These consist of very fine solid particles suspended in a gas. These particles are often created by processes such as welding, smelting, or other high-temperature operations where a material is vaporized and then condenses into tiny solid particles.
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Irritating or Offensive Nature: A key characteristic of fumes is that they tend to be irritating to the respiratory system or have an unpleasant odor. This differentiates them from ordinary vapors or gases.
Examples of Fumes:
- Engine exhaust fumes
- Welding fumes
- Fumes from chemical spills
- Fumes from burning plastic
- Fumes from paint or solvents
In summary, a fume is an irritating or offensive smoke, vapor, or gas, or a suspension of particles in a gas, typically associated with industrial processes, combustion, or chemical reactions.
