Question

A discrete mass of any material ,except pure water, that exists as liquid or solid in the atmosphere and of microscopic or submicroscopic dimension is called as :

• A. Particulate matter
• B. Photochemical matter
• C. Condensation matter
• D. Suspended matter

Hint:

Particulate matter with a diameter under \(2.5\ \mu\text{m}\) (\(PM_{2.5}\)) is highly hazardous to human health because it can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Atmospheric air pollution consists of gaseous pollutants and suspended solid or liquid particles of varying chemical compositions and sizes.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Any solid or liquid particles (excluding pure water vapor or droplets) suspended in the air that are microscopic or submicroscopic in size are defined as Particulate Matter (PM).
2. These particles can consist of dust, pollen, soot, smoke, or liquid droplets, categorized by size (e.g., \(PM_{10}\) and \(PM_{2.5}\)).
3. While they are suspended in the air, the scientific term for the discrete solid or liquid masses themselves is particulate matter.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The discrete masses of liquid or solid suspended in the atmosphere are called Particulate matter.