Microplastics
Microplastics
Microplastics (/ˌmaɪkroʊˈplastɪks/) are small pieces of plastic that are less than 5mm in length. They are a major source of environmental pollution, particularly in marine environments.
Etymology
The term "microplastics" is derived from the prefix "micro-" meaning small, and "plastics," a common term for synthetic polymers. It was first used in scientific literature in the early 2000s.
Definition
Microplastics are defined as plastic particles with a size lower than 5mm. They can be categorized into two types: primary and secondary microplastics. Primary microplastics are intentionally produced at a small size for use in products such as cosmetics and industrial scrubbers. Secondary microplastics are the result of larger plastic items breaking down over time due to exposure to the elements.
Impact
Microplastics pose a significant threat to marine life. They can be ingested by a wide range of marine organisms, leading to physical harm and exposure to toxic chemicals. There is also growing concern about the potential for microplastics to enter the human food chain.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Microplastics
- Wikipedia's article - Microplastics
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