Dust is a general name for minute solid particles with diameter less than 500 micrometers (otherwise see sand or granulates) and, more generally, for finely divided matter. On Earth, dust occurs in the atmosphere from various sources: soil dust lifted up by wind, volcanic eruptions, and pollution are some examples; airborne dust is considered an aerosol and can have a strong, local radiative forcing on the atmosphere and significant effects on climate. In addition, if composed of a flammable substance (such as flour), under some circumstances it can be an explosion hazard.

Dust is responsible for the lung disease known as Pneumoconiosis, including black lung disease that occurs among coal miners. These have resulted in a number of laws regulating environmental standards for working conditions.

House dust

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The dust which collects in houses is composed of atmospheric dust combined with dust generated by the inhabitants, mostly from sloughed skin cells and fibers from clothing and coverings. It can be removed with a broom, dusting cloth, vacuum cleaner or by a swipe of one's hand.

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