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GCSE Combined Science · key term
Tiny particles suspended in air, including solid carbon particles from fuel combustion.
Used by AQA
Specification 5.9.3.2 · Paper 4
Revise: Effects of Atmospheric PollutantsParticulates are tiny particles suspended in the atmosphere. They include solid carbon particles associated with soot. Unlike carbon monoxide or sulfur dioxide, these are particles rather than individual gas molecules.
Link each named pollutant to its specific effect: carbon monoxide causes poisoning; sulfur dioxide and oxides of nitrogen cause respiratory problems and acid rain; particulates cause health problems and global dimming.
For global dimming, explain that particulates reflect sunlight back into space, so less sunlight reaches the Earth's surface. Do not confuse this with the greenhouse effect.
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