particulate matter
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particulate matter
Very small particles suspended in the air that are invisible to humans and are considered air pollution. High concentrations can be harmful to health.
In vielen Großstädten wird die Feinstaub-Belastung regelmäßig gemessen.
In many large cities, particulate matter pollution is measured regularly.
'Feinstaub' (particulate matter) is a compound noun made from the adjective 'fein' (fine) and the noun 'der Staub' (dust). So it literally describes dust that consists of very fine particles.
Feinstaub ist mit bloßem Auge nicht zu erkennen.
Particulate matter cannot be seen with the naked eye.
The word is often used in combination with terms from the fields of environment and health. Common combinations are 'die Feinstaubbelastung' (particulate matter pollution), 'der Feinstaubgrenzwert' (particulate matter limit), and verbs like 'messen' (to measure) or 'reduzieren' (to reduce).
Die Regierung hat neue Maßnahmen beschlossen, um die Feinstaubbelastung zu reduzieren.
The government has approved new measures to reduce particulate matter pollution.
'Feinstaub' (particulate matter) is almost always used in the singular because it is an uncountable substance, similar to 'Wasser' (water) or 'Sand' (sand). The plural 'die Feinstäube' is very rare and is used only in scientific technical contexts.
Alter Autoreifenabrieb ist eine Quelle für Feinstaub.
Old car tire abrasion is a source of particulate matter.
air pollution
Feinstaub is a specific form of air pollution consisting of very small particles suspended in the air. Luftverschmutzung is the broader term and includes harmful gases or smoke as well as dust. Use Feinstaub only when the focus is specifically on these particles.
Die Messstation meldet heute viel Feinstaub in der Innenstadt.
The monitoring station is reporting high levels of particulate matter in the city center today.
Die Messstation meldet heute starke Luftverschmutzung durch Staub, Rauch und Abgase.
The monitoring station is reporting severe air pollution from dust, smoke, and exhaust fumes today.
