Definition

Microscopic solid or liquid particles in the atmosphere. Particulate matter can be natural (such as pollen) or man-made (caused by pollution). Particulate matter is defined by its size, such as PM10 (particles less than 10 micrometres in diameter) and PM2.5 (2.5 micrometres in diameter or less). PM has negative health impacts as smaller particles can be inhaled and absorbed into the bloodstream.

Further reading
Particulate Matter (PM) Basics - Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) [website]
Related

aerosols; air pollutants; atmospheric aerosol particles; atmospheric aerosols; atmospheric particulate matter; coarse particles; dust; fine particles; microscopic particles; particulate air pollution; particulate matter pollution; particulates; PM pollution; smog; soot; Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM); ultrafine particles

See also
Air quality
Fossil fuels
Global dimming
Pollution
Sulphur dioxide (SO2)
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Challenges
Environmental Changes
Drafted by
Chris Graham
Reviewed by
TBC