Airborne particulates, also known as particulate matter (PM), are tiny solid or liquid particles suspended in the air. These particles vary in size, composition, and origin. Common sources include vehicle emissions, industrial processes, natural events like wildfires, and everyday activities such as cooking and smoking. Particulates are typically categorized by size, with PM10 (particles with a diameter of 10 micrometers or less) and PM2.5 (particles with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less) being the most studied due to their potential health impacts.
