Dustfall

/ˈdʌstfɔːl/ noun

Definition

Fine dust particles that fall through the air, either naturally from wind or as an environmental pollutant.

Etymology

Compound of 'dust' and 'fall'. Emerged as a scientific and environmental term in the 20th century to describe particulate matter settling from the atmosphere.

Kelly Says

Scientists measure 'dustfall' to monitor air pollution and environmental health—certain regions with volcanic activity or deserts have extremely high dustfall rates, and even cities far from dust sources can be affected by dust traveling thousands of miles!

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