What term refers to solid particles or liquid droplets suspended in a gaseous medium?

The term that describes solid particles or liquid droplets suspended in a gaseous medium is "particulate matter." This encompasses a variety of tiny solid and liquid particles that can be found in the air, including smoke, dust, pollen, and liquid droplets from sources like aerosol sprays or cloud condensation. The classification of these particles is important in environmental science and air quality discussions because they can have significant impacts on health and the environment.

In the context of air quality, particulate matter is often categorized by its size, with fine particles (PM2.5) being particularly concerning due to their ability to penetrate deep into the respiratory system and enter the bloodstream. Understanding particulate matter is essential for analyzing air pollution, its sources, and its effects on health and climate.