Smoke

Smoke is a collection of airborne solid and liquid particulates and gases emitted when a material undergoes combustion or pyrolysis, often accompanied by the quantity of air that is entrained or otherwise mixed into the mass. It is commonly an unwanted by-product of fires (including stoves, candles, oil lamps, and fireplaces), but may also be used for pest control, communication (smoke signals), defensive and offensive capabilities in the military (smoke-screen), cooking (smoked salmon), or smoking (tobacco, cannabis, etc.). Smoke is used in rituals, when incense, sage, or resin is burned to produce a smell for spiritual purposes. Smoke is sometimes used as a flavoring agent, and preservative for various foodstuffs. Smoke is also a component of internal combustion engine exhaust gas, particularly diesel exhaust.

Smoke particles are an aerosol (or mist) of solid particles and liquid droplets that are close to the ideal range of sizes for Mie scattering of visible light. This gives smoke its characteristic white or gray color. The composition of smoke depends on the nature of the burning fuel and the conditions of combustion.

Composition

Smoke from a typical fire is composed of a complex mixture of more than 100 chemicals in the form of gases, liquids, and solid particles. The specific composition of smoke can vary significantly based on the material being burned. For example, wood smoke contains, among other compounds, a variety of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as benzene, formaldehyde, acrolein, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Smoke from the burning of plastics and other synthetic materials can contain toxic substances such as hydrogen cyanide, hydrochloric acid, and dioxins.

Health Effects

Exposure to smoke can have significant health effects. Inhalation of smoke can cause respiratory distress, including coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Long-term exposure to smoke can increase the risk of chronic respiratory diseases, heart disease, and lung cancer. The fine particles in smoke can penetrate deep into the lungs and into the bloodstream, causing additional health problems. Vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions are at greater risk from smoke exposure.

Environmental Impact

Smoke can also have detrimental effects on the environment. It can reduce air quality and visibility, harm wildlife, and contribute to climate change. Smoke particles can settle on soil and water bodies, affecting plant and aquatic life. The release of greenhouse gases from burning fuels contributes to global warming.

Detection and Management

Smoke detection and management are critical for public health and safety. Smoke detectors are a common safety feature in homes and buildings. On a larger scale, air quality monitoring stations measure smoke and other pollutants in the atmosphere. Controlled burns and fire management practices can help minimize the production of smoke from wildfires.

See Also

• Air pollution
• Fire
• Smog
• Wildfire

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