February 9, 2025

Recently, scientists have discovered a chemical pathway that worsens air quality in extremely cold winters, involving the formation of hydroxymethanesulphonate in aerosol particles.

About HydroxyMethaneSulphonate (HMS)

HMS is a compound formed when formaldehyde reacts with sulfur dioxide in the presence of liquid water.

Formation in Cold Conditions:

  • Occurs in aerosol particles during extremely cold winters, such as in Fairbanks, Alaska.
  • Supercooled aerosol particles (liquid water droplets below freezing point) facilitate HMS formation.

Impact on Air Quality:

  • HMS contributes significantly to fine particulate matter (PM2.5), worsening air pollution during cold weather.

About Aerosols: Tiny solid or liquid particles suspended in the air, such as dust, smoke, fog, or chemical particles like sulfates and ammonium.

PM2.5: Fine particulate matter with a diameter less than 2.5 micrometers (µm), capable of penetrating deep into the respiratory tract, causing health issues.

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