What is AQI?
The U.S. AQI is EPA’s index for reporting air quality.
What about PM2.5 versus PM10 versus Ozone?
We have all heard so much about particulate matter, PM2.5 and PM10, and ozone.
PM2.5 are finer (or smaller) particles in the air that measure 2.5 micrometers in size. They are more dangerous because they can get into the deep parts of your lungs or even into your blood.
PM10 are larger, bigger than 10 micrometers, particles that we often see in the air. They can irritate your eyes, nose and throat but don’t pose as great a risk to your health compared to PM2.5
Ground level ozone is a pollutant created by volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides when they react with sunlight (UV rays). Ozone occurs more frequently on sunny and hot days, usually in the afternoon or early evening.