Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Anderson is a reference to the Anderson cascade impactor, a device used to measure particle size distribution in aerosols. In microbiology, it can be applied to study the dispersion of photosynthetic microorganisms in various environments.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
The Anderson cascade impactor is essential for measuring the aerodynamic diameter of particles.
It separates particles based on their size by using multiple stages with decreasing nozzle diameters.
In photosynthesis research, it helps understand how photosynthetic microorganisms disperse in air and water columns.
The impactor allows scientists to collect samples at different stages for further microbial analysis under microscopes or cultures.
Understanding particle size distribution helps predict the behavior and efficiency of photosynthetic organisms in natural and artificial settings.
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Related terms
Aerodynamic Diameter: The diameter of a spherical particle that has the same settling velocity as the particle being measured.
Photosynthetic Microorganisms: Microorganisms that carry out photosynthesis, converting light energy into chemical energy.
Aerosols: A suspension of fine solid particles or liquid droplets in air or another gas.