What is the common method used to measure air pollutants?

The measurement of air pollutants is most commonly done using opacity as a method. Opacity refers to the degree to which air or another medium is obscured by particulates and other pollutants. This measurement can indicate the presence and concentration of particulate matter in the air, which is a critical aspect of air quality assessment.

When air pollutants, such as dust or smoke, are present, they scatter and absorb light, which affects the amount of light that passes through a sample of air. Opacity measurements provide real-time assessments of air quality, informing regulatory compliance and public health safety. Organizations and environmental agencies often utilize opacity meters to monitor emissions from industrial sources and ensure they adhere to established standards.

Other methods, such as density, conductivity, and pH level, are more suitable for assessing different environmental conditions or pollutants rather than being the primary means of measuring air pollutants specifically. Therefore, opacity stands out as the most relevant technique for this purpose.