Which type of pollution comes from dust, dirt, and soot lingering in the air?

The type of pollution that comes from dust, dirt, and soot lingering in the air is often referred to as "particulate matter" or "particle pollution." Particulate matter consists of tiny particles suspended in the air, and they can vary in size. Common sources of particulate matter include combustion processes from vehicles, industrial activities, construction sites, and natural sources like wildfires and dust storms.

Particulate matter is categorized based on the size of the particles. PM10 refers to particles with a diameter of 10 micrometers or smaller, while PM2.5 refers to particles with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or smaller. These particles can be inhaled into the respiratory system and, depending on their size, may have different effects on human health.

In addition to their impact on human health, particulate matter can contribute to environmental problems such as reduced visibility and can settle on surfaces, leading to the soiling of buildings and vegetation. Efforts to control particulate matter pollution often involve regulations on emissions from various sources and measures to improve air quality.