Particulate+matter+in+the+air

=Particulate Matter = Small particles in the air, including those from smoke, sea salt, soot, dust, dirt, and in water droplets, are called particulate matter. The composition of particulate matter varies widely and can impact air quality and human health by reducing visibility, contributing to smog formation, and causing respiratory problems. Particles can come from a variety of sources, including automobiles, factories, construction and mine sites, burning wood, and volcanoes. In the U.S., the EPA set standards regulating particles with diameters of 10 micrometers or less. In 1997, new regulations that set standards for smaller particles, those with diameters of 2.5 micrometers or less, were proposed based on a study by the American Cancer Society indicating a link between significant concentrations of fine particulate matter, a variety of serious health problems, including asthma attacks, chronic bronchitis, and heart attacks, in addition to an aggravation of heart and lung diseases leading to premature death. The revised standard was extremely controversial; several groups questioned the validity of the study on which the standard was based, while some health officials noted that it was not clear whether it is the size of the particle, rather than the specific type of pollutant, that is related to the health threats. There is, however, some evidence that smaller particles are more easily ingested into the lungs. Regardless, it wasn't until 2007 that the final ruling for the 1997 regulation was issued.   Particulate Matter The Environmental Protection Agency provides a variety of information on particulate matter, from basics and health effects to standards, regulations, and research.  Particle Pollution The Weather Underground describes particle pollution, provides a chart with levels of hazard, and summarizes EPA standards.

FOR THE CLASSROOM
 Danger In The Air! What is in our air and how did it get there? Part of Living From Earth and Mars a website compiled by K-12 educators, NASA's IITA program, and the University of Washington this website has basic exercises that allow students to explore various air quality issues.