What is the definition of an aerosol?
An aerosol is a suspension of fine solid particles or liquid droplets in air or another gas. This mixture includes both the particles and the suspending gas, which is usually air.
Questions about Aerosol
Short answers, pulled from the story.
When did Frederick G. Donnan first use the term aerosol?
Frederick G. Donnan presumably first used the term aerosol during World War I to describe an aero-solution. He applied this term analogously to hydrosol, a colloid system with water as the dispersed medium.
How do PM2.5 and PM10 differ in particle size ranges?
PM2.5 refers to the mass of particles with sizes between 0 and 2.5 micrometers while PM10 covers sizes between 0 and 10 micrometers. These size ranges play a role in ascertaining harmful effects on human health.
Why are volcanic aerosols significant for climate change?
Volcanic aerosols form in the stratosphere after an eruption as droplets of sulfuric acid that can prevail for up to two years. They interact with Earth's energy budget by scattering and absorbing incoming solar radiation, leading to surface cooling.
What regulations were implemented regarding shipping emissions in 2020?
In 2020, regulations on fuel significantly cut sulfur dioxide emissions from international shipping by approximately 80%. This led to an unexpected global geoengineering termination shock due to reduced cooling effects from aerosols.