How does particulate matter enter the atmosphere?

QuestionsCategory: PollutionHow does particulate matter enter the atmosphere?
Aayesha Gala asked 6 years ago
Summary
How does particulate matter enter the atmosphere?
Article Name
How does particulate matter enter the atmosphere?
Description
Several different sources are responsible for the release of different types of pollutants in the atmosphere. Particulate Matter also has multiple sources of entry into the atmosphere.
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Publisher Name
GreenSutra
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1 Answers
Best Answer
Team GreenSutra® Staff answered 6 years ago

Particulate Matter can be organic and inorganic in nature. Some of these particles are:

  • Dust
  • Pollen
  • Soot
  • Smoke
  • Mineral Dust

The following are the two methods on how these particulate matter can enter the atmosphere:

  • Direct – Like when fuel is burnt and when dust is carried by wind, or
  • Indirect – Like when gaseous pollutants previously emitted to air turn into particulate matter

Some common direct and indirect sources include:

  • Emissions from Motor vehicles
  • Wood burning stoves and fireplaces
  • Dust from construction, landfills, and agriculture
  • Wildfires
  • Brush/waste burning
  • Industrial Emissions
  • Windblown dust from open lands