Glossary

This glossary provides definitions of common terms used in the context of air pollution.

You can navigate quickly to a term using the alphabetic links below; clicking on the terms will show their definition.

Glossary 



0-9

A

B

  • BAM (Beta Attenuation Mass Monitor)
  • Benzene (C6H6)
    Benzene is an aromatic organic compound which is a minor constituent of petrol (about 2% by volume). The main sources of benzene in the atmosphere in Europe are the distribution and combustion of petrol. Combustion by petrol vehicles is the largest component (70% of total emissions) whilst the refining, distribution and evaporation of petrol from vehicles accounts for approximately a further 10% of total emissions. Benzene is emitted in vehicle exhaust as unburnt fuel and also as a product of the decomposition of other aromatic compounds. Benzene is a known human carcinogen.
  • Black Smoke

C

D

E

F

G

H

L

M

N

O

P

R

S

T

V

Z