Beyond the numbers: PM_2.5 is not PM_2.5

[AirGradientBlog]

This article is part of a series, where we explore the hidden complexities of PM2.5 — tiny airborne particles that impact air quality and health. We will uncover the ambiguities behind its measurement, the challenges in assessing health risks, and the surprising insights that emerge. Each article will tackle a different aspect of PM2.5, shedding light on its hidden dilemmas and unanswered questions. Today’s article discusses the variety of different airborne particles.

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This is a companion discussion topic for the original entry at https://www.airgradient.com/blog/pm25-is-not-pm25/

[BRice]

Thank you Sirial! This post made clear a distinction that that I found confusing, that FRMs all had their own biases. When considering that filters are dessicated before weighing, that filtered samples are processed before analysis, that the particles are altered by the analysis. It appears that we need a “Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle” for PM where observing a particle creates biases that alter the outcome. With no perfect observation method so far, we don’t have a particle size distribution method that everyone can agree on.