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The Noxious Cocktail of Wildfire Smoke

What is wildfire smoke made of and why is it harmful to humans?

Wildfire smoke composition varies depending on factors like the type of fuel and whether the fire is smoldering or flaming, says UBC Chemistry Assistant Professor Dr. Nadine Borduas-Dedekind. The smoke can contain oxygenated organic molecules, carcinogenic polyaromatic hydrocarbons, trace metals, and more.

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