Determining whether atmospheric conditions are fog or haze can be achieved through analyzing the numerical relationships between PM1.0 and PM2.5. Fog and haze are two distinct atmospheric phenomena, differing in their causes and compositions. Haze is primarily caused by suspended particles in the air, such as PM2.5 and PM1.0, whereas fog results from the condensation of water vapor in the air into tiny droplets. Although visually similar, analyzing the values of PM1.0 and PM2.5 can help distinguish between them.
• Characteristics of Haze: When concentrations of PM2.5 and PM1.0 significantly increase in the air, it indicates deteriorating air quality, typically associated with haze. The main feature of haze is the presence of a large number of fine particles in the air, which can scatter and absorb light, reducing visibility. A very high proportion of PM1.0 within PM2.5 may indicate a large amount of ultrafine particles in the air, a situation more likely related to haze.
• Characteristics of Fog: Fog is created when water vapor in the air becomes oversaturated and condenses into droplets, leading to reduced visibility. In foggy conditions, concentrations of PM2.5 and PM1.0 may not significantly increase. If a notable decrease in visibility is observed without a significant change or increase in PM2.5 and PM1.0 concentrations, it’s likely due to fog rather than haze.
• Distinguishing Method: Analyzing the ratio or absolute concentrations of PM2.5 and PM1.0 can provide clues. Generally, in hazy weather, concentrations of PM2.5 and PM1.0 will be higher, with a greater proportion of PM1.0 within PM2.5, reflecting an increased ratio of ultrafine particles in the air. In foggy conditions, even with low visibility, the concentrations of PM2.5 and PM1.0 may not change significantly or as noticeably as in hazy conditions.
It’s important to note that this method is not absolute due to the complexity of atmospheric conditions, where many factors can affect visibility and particulate matter concentrations. In reality, fog and haze can occur simultaneously, making distinction challenging. The most accurate approach involves a comprehensive analysis combining meteorological data (such as relative humidity, temperature, etc.) with air quality monitoring data.
CurieJet® P710 Particle Sensor Module uses laser light with Mie scattering theory to measure PM2.5, PM10 and even PM1.0 particulate matter and dust in the air. It adopts our customized air pump, air chamber and MCU and is the world’s smallest optical laser PM 2.5 sensor with size only 29 x 29 x 7.2 mm. It is the smallest size in the world with only 1/4 volume of other optical laser PM2.5 sensors.https://www.curiejet.com/en/product/particle-voc-index-barometric-pressure-sensor/environmental-sensor-modules