Air Quality index in Amman, Irbid, and

Al-Zarqa.
Department of Geology.
Written by:
Bayan Jamal Halima.
Reem Mohsen Al-toukhi.
Department of Environmental and Applied Geology.
Faculty of science.
The University of Jordan.
For:
The degree of BSc

Supervised by:
Prof. Dr. Mustafa Al Kuisi.
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* Abstract:
Air pollution is a significant environmental concern affecting the
health and well-being of urban populations worldwide. This project
aims to conduct a comparative analysis of the Air Quality Index
(AQI) in three major cities in Jordan: Amman, Irbid, and Zarqa. The
project utilizes data collected from various monitoring stations in
these cities to assess the air quality and identify potential sources of
pollution.
The study begins by providing a comprehensive review of existing
literature on air pollution and its adverse effects on human health and
the environment. The focus then shifts to the specific urban contexts
of Amman, Irbid, and Zarqa, highlighting their geographical,
industrial, and demographic characteristics, which may contribute to
variations in air quality. To evaluate air quality, the AQI is calculated
based on measurements of common pollutants such as particulate
matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide
(SO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and ozone (O3). Historical data from
monitoring stations located strategically across the cities are analyzed
to determine the AQI trends, seasonal variations, and potential
hotspots of pollution. Furthermore, the project explores the potential
sources of pollution in each city, including industrial activities,
vehicular emissions, and residential heating practices. This
investigation involves a combination of data analysis, GIS mapping,
and site visits to relevant pollution-emitting sources.
The findings of this project will contribute to a comprehensive
understanding of the air quality situation in Amman, Irbid, and
Zarqa. The comparative analysis will identify similarities and
differences between the cities, shedding light on the effectiveness of
existing air pollution mitigation measures and highlighting areas that
require further attention.

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The results can be used by local authorities, policymakers, and urban
planners to develop targeted strategies and interventions aimed at
improving air quality and safeguarding public health in these urban
centers.
Keywords: air quality index, AQI, air pollution, particulate matter,
nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, ozone, Amman,
Irbid, Zarqa.

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*Table of Contents:
Introduction ……………………………………………… Page 5,6
The aim of the study………………………................Page 6,7,8
Study Area ………………………………………… Page 8, 9, 10, 11
Dataset Acquisition …………………………….Page 11,12,13,14
Methodology of the study……………………….Page (17-32)
The results ……………………………………………Page (32-38)
*Interpretation of the results…………………..Page
Conclusion………………………………….Page
References…………………………………………..Page

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*Introduction:
Immoderate amounts of gases, particles, or molecules that brought
into Earth’s atmosphere certainly cause Air Pollution (AP). These
amounts are sourced from: anthropogenic and technological actions
such as combustion and industrial processes, or natural actions like
wood fires and volcanic activity.
The consequences of high pollutants‟ concentrations have aroused
interest in eliminating its sources and mitigating its effects. Human
health, climate, and ecosystems are the most likely liable to the
effects of air pollution. Many studies have long prompted to health
implications for air low quality leading to cardiopulmonary health
issues, genetic childhood, and asthma and more recently to
substantially effects on neurological problems. Short-term exposure
to high levels of air pollution can cause irritation of the eyes, nose,
and throat, as well as coughing and shortness of breath
Because of its large-scale effects on ecosystems and its cross-
boundary nature, environmental scientists are increasingly required
to meet situations calling for scientific data to resolve environmental
problems. Starting from the contaminants release mechanisms,
characterizing the risks of carbon dioxide and greenhouse emissions
on vegetation, animals, atmosphere, water bodies, soils, and long-
term effects on warming the globe urge scientists to speculate the
concentrations of air pollutants by the time The increasing
greenhouse gas concentrations will lead to higher emission levels, and
consequently, higher trapping of radiations in the atmosphere which
causes warming up the earth's temperature.
AIR QUALITY IN JORDAN
Jordan population is approximately ten million according to the
Jordanian Department of Statistics, covering an area of

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Approximately 89,000 km2, which has undergone a rapid
development of different industries resulting in the contaminated air
quality. The prospective air pollutants in the city (Amman) for
instance, are collected from different sources and sinks that mainly
are: the high sulfur content of heavy fuel oils (typically 3 percent
Sulfur), the open-air incineration of domestic wastes (approx. 600
tones/day), the existence of sand and lime quarries in and around the
city and the burning of used lubricating oils by bakeries, smelters,
pottery factories and other small-scale industries located in residential
areas and cities.

*The aim of the (AQI) study:

The purpose of this study is to build several classification models for
predicting the Air Pollution Factors for a given day based on the
baseline historical climate dataset. Also to provide a standardized and
simple way to understand the quality of the air we breathe. The AQI
is a measurement system that provides information about how clean
or polluted the air is in a specific area at a given time. It takes into
account several common air pollutants, such as ground-level ozone,
particle pollution (also known as particulate matter), carbon
monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. The AQI translates
air quality data into numbers and colors that indicate the level of
pollution and potential health effects associated with the air quality.
Here is a simplified version of the AQI scale:
1. Good (Green):
 AQI Range: 0-50
 Description: Air quality is satisfactory, and air pollution
poses little to no risk. People can engage in outdoor
activities without significant health concerns.
2. Moderate (Yellow):
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  AQI Range: 51-100
 Description: Air quality is acceptable, but certain
pollutants may pose a moderate health risk to sensitive
individuals. People with respiratory conditions and the
elderly should take precautionary measures.
3. Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (Orange):
 AQI Range: 101-150
 Description: Some pollutants may cause health effects,
particularly for individuals with respiratory or
cardiovascular conditions, children, and the elderly.
Sensitive groups should limit prolonged outdoor activities.
4. Unhealthy (Red):
 AQI Range: 151-200
 Description: The general population may start to
experience health effects. People with respiratory or
cardiovascular conditions, children, and the elderly should
avoid prolonged outdoor activities. Others should reduce
outdoor exertion.
5. Very Unhealthy (Purple):
 AQI Range: 201-300
 Description: The risk of health effects is significantly
increased for everyone. People with respiratory or
cardiovascular conditions, children, and the elderly should
avoid all outdoor activities. Others should minimize
outdoor exposure.
6. Hazardous (Maroon):
 AQI Range: 301 and above

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  Description: Air quality is severely polluted, posing a
serious risk to health. Everyone should avoid any outdoor
activity, and individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular
conditions should remain indoors with proper filtration.
This information can be used by government agencies, researchers, and
the public to make informed decisions about their daily activities, such
as exercising outdoors or avoiding outdoor activities during high-
pollution days.
The overall goal of the AQI is to protect public health by providing
information about air quality and encouraging actions that can reduce
exposure to harmful pollutants.

*Study Area:
In general: Jordan has a semi-arid to arid climate,
which is characterized by hot, dry summers and cool, wet
winters. The country experiences seasonal variations in
temperature and precipitation, with the months of May to
September being the hottest and driest, and December to
February being the coolest and wettest.
The air quality in Jordan is affected by various factors,
including local emissions from industrial activities,
transportation, and energy production, as well as regional
dust and pollution sources. The Air Quality Index (AQI)
is a measure of the air quality, with higher values indicating poorer
air quality and increased health risks.
In Jordan, the AQI is influenced by a variety of factors such as
weather patterns, wind speed and direction, and local and regional
sources of pollution. During the hot and dry summer months, there is
an increased risk of wildfires, which can contribute to poor air

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quality. In addition, the transportation sector is a significant
contributor to air pollution in Jordan, particularly in urban areas
where traffic congestion is common.
Jordan is also affected by regional dust storms, which can
significantly impact air quality. These storms are caused by wind
patterns and weather conditions in neighboring countries,
particularly in the Arabian Peninsula and northern Africa. During
dust storms, the AQI in Jordan can reach hazardous levels, leading to
respiratory problems and other health issues. Overall, the climate in
Jordan and the AQI are closely linked, with various environmental
and human factors influencing air quality. Improving air quality in
the country requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses both
local and regional sources of pollution, as well as factors related to
weather and climate patterns.

As for in particular
Amman, Jordan:
Population: Amman is the capital and largest city of Jordan. As of the
knowledge cutoff in 2021, the estimated population of Amman was
around 4 million people. Please note that population figures may have
changed since then.
Sources of Pollution in Amman:
Vehicular Emissions: Amman has a significant number of vehicles,
and the increasing traffic congestion contributes to air pollution. The
emissions from cars, buses, and trucks release pollutants such as
particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide.
Industrial Activities: The city hosts various industries, including
manufacturing, construction, and energy production. Industrial

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emissions can release pollutants like sulfur dioxide, volatile organic
compounds (VOCs), and other harmful chemicals into the air.
Residential Heating: During the winter months, many households in
Amman rely on wood-burning stoves or low-quality fuels for heating,
which can release particulate matter and other pollutants into the air.
Irbid, Jordan:
Population: Irbid is the second-largest city in Jordan and a major
educational and cultural center. As of the knowledge cutoff in 2021,
the estimated population of Irbid was around 1.9 million people.
Please note that population figures may have changed since then.
Sources of Pollution in Irbid:
Vehicular Emissions: Similar to Amman, Irbid experiences traffic
congestion, leading to increased vehicle emissions and air pollution.
Industrial Activities: Irbid hosts several industrial zones, including
manufacturing, food processing, and pharmaceutical industries.
These activities can release pollutants into the air, including
particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, and volatile organic compounds.
Agricultural Practices: Irbid's surrounding areas include agricultural
lands where certain farming practices, such as open-field burning of
agricultural waste, can contribute to air pollution.

Zarqa, Jordan:
Population: Zarqa is the third-largest city in Jordan, located east of
Amman. As of the knowledge cutoff in 2021, the estimated population
of Zarqa was around 1.6 million people. Please note that population
figures may have changed since then.
Sources of Pollution in Zarqa:

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Industrial Activities: Zarqa is known as an industrial hub, with
numerous industrial facilities, including refineries, chemical plants,
and manufacturing industries. These industrial activities can emit
various pollutants, including sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide,
particulate matter, and volatile organic compounds.
Vehicular Emissions: Similar to other cities, Zarqa experiences heavy
traffic, and the resulting vehicle emissions contribute to air pollution.
Power Generation: Zarqa hosts power plants and other energy-related
facilities. The combustion of fossil fuels in these power generation
processes can release pollutants into the air, such as sulfur dioxide,
nitrogen dioxide, and particulate matter.

* DATASET ACQUISITION:
The Ministry of Environment air quality monitoring network
consists of 12 ambient air quality monitoring stations, Distributed as
follows:
• 7 stations located in Amman (GAM, KAC, KHG, MAH, TAB,
UNI, and YAR).
• 3 stations in Zarqa (HAJ, MAS, and ABK/HH).
• 2 stations in Irbid (H SC, and BAR).
The ministry’s Ambient Air Quality Network consists of 12
continuous monitoring stations, Table (1.1) Refers to types and
locations of stations in Amman, Irbid and Zarqa. Locations of the
measurements stations were chosen based on a preliminary mapping
of the 3 cities to represent urban, traffic and industrial atmospheric
events, in addition to a background reference station located in
Amman at the king Hussein gardens in the area of Dabooq in
Amman.

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 Short Name Name in Arabic Type of Station Name in English

Amman

KHG ‫حدائق الملك حسين‬ Background King Hussein Gardens

GAM ‫أمانة عمان الكبرى‬ Urban Greater Amman
Municipality
TAB )‫مجمع سفريات الشمال (طبربور‬ Traffic Northern Bus Station
Tabarbour
MAH ‫ المحطة‬- ‫ماركا‬ Urban Marka – Mahata
UNI ‫صويلح‬- ‫شارع الجامعة‬ Traffic University street Sweile
KAC - ‫مدينة الملك عبدالله الثاني‬ Industrial King Abdullah II
‫سحاب‬ Industrial City / Sahab
YAR ‫حديقة اليرموك وادي الرمم‬ Industrial Wadi Rimam Yarmuk
Garden
Irbid
HAJ ‫مركز صحي وادي الحجر‬ Traffic Health Center Wadi
Hajjar
MAS ‫المسلخ البلدي منطقة المصانع‬ Industrial Main slaughter house
Masane’ Zone
ABK/HH ‫القاعة الهاشمية‬ Urban Hashemite Hall
Zarqa
HSC ‫مدينة الحسن الرياضية‬ Traffic AL Hassan Sport City
BAR ‫شارع البارحة‬ Urban Al Barha street

Operation and site Performance All monitoring sites were operated

by staff of United Technology, Operation included maintenance of
monitoring equipment, site supervision, calibration, telemetry and
provision of quality assured data. In addition to issuing of weekly,
monthly and yearly reports. Sites were operated in accordance with
manufacturer and International Quality Assurance procedures for
ambient air quality monitoring. Part of these procedures state that
“site operation and office procedures shall be conducted to minimize
data loss”. Reasons for incomplete datasets include: instrument
malfunction, communications failure or power loss. Measures to
mitigate data loss were implemented with multiple levels of data
security in place, detailed remote monitoring of the internal
parameters in the analyzers in addition to site follow up procedures.

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*Result:
In Jordan, the Ministry of Environment provides air quality
monitoring data and updates the AQI levels regularly. The breaking
points and PSI (Pollutant Standards Index) for the AQI in Jordan are
as follows:

1. PM10 (Particulate Matter 10 micrometers or less in

diameter)
Good: 0-54 µg/m3
Moderate: 55-154 µg/m3
Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups: 155-254 µg/m3
Unhealthy: 255-354 µg/m3
Very Unhealthy: 355-424 µg/m3
Hazardous: 425-504 µg/m3
Very Hazardous: 505-604 µg/m3

2. NO2 (Nitrogen Dioxide)

Good: 0-53 ppb
Moderate: 54-100 ppb
Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups: 101-360 ppb
Unhealthy: 361-649 ppb
Very Unhealthy: 650-1249 ppb
Hazardous: 1250-1649 ppb
Very Hazardous: 1650-2049 ppb

3. SO2 (Sulfur Dioxide)

Good: 0-35 ppb
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Moderate: 36-75 ppb
Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups: 76-185 ppb
Unhealthy: 186-304 ppb
Very Unhealthy: 305-604 ppb
Hazardous: 605-804 ppb
Very Hazardous: 805-1004 ppb

4. CO (Carbon Monoxide)
Good: 0-4.4 ppm (parts per million)
Moderate: 4.5-9.4 ppm
Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups: 9.5-12.4 ppm
Unhealthy: 12.5-15.4 ppm
Very Unhealthy: 15.5-30.4

*Methodology of the study:

We obtained the data through Dr. Tariq Hussain as we
mentioned from the monitoring stations above, data requires
preprocessing and to be saved
into spreadsheet document
(Excel) as shown in figure 1.

Fig1: the data

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 The available dataset was chosen for the period between 5/5/2018
and 29/12/2021 across different sites in Jordan, Different factors
and compounds were observed and considered as pollutants.
(NO2, CO, SO2, PM10)
No2:
NO2 stands for nitrogen dioxide, which is a reddish-brown toxic gas. It is a
common air pollutant primarily released from the burning of fossil fuels,
including vehicles, power plants, and industrial processes.
Nitrogen dioxide plays a significant role in air pollution and can have
adverse effects on human health and the environment. Some key points
about NO2 include:
1. Health Effects: Exposure to elevated levels of nitrogen dioxide can cause
respiratory problems, including irritation of the airways, coughing,
wheezing, and increased susceptibility to respiratory infections.
Prolonged exposure to high levels of NO2 can contribute to the
development or exacerbation of asthma and other respiratory diseases.
2. Environmental Impact: Nitrogen dioxide is a contributor to the
formation of ground-level ozone (O3) and smog, which can harm
vegetation, reduce crop yields, and damage ecosystems. It also contributes
to the formation of acid rain, which has detrimental effects on aquatic life
and can damage buildings and infrastructure.
3. Monitoring and Regulation: Governments and environmental agencies
monitor NO2 levels in the air to assess air quality and develop
regulations to limit its emissions. This includes setting air quality
standards and implementing measures to reduce nitrogen dioxide
emissions from various sources.
4. NO2 and Air Quality Index (AQI): Nitrogen dioxide is one of the key
pollutants included in the calculation of the Air Quality Index (AQI).
High levels of NO2 can contribute to poor air quality and result in a
higher AQI value, indicating a greater risk to human health.

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CO:
CO stands for carbon monoxide, which is a colorless, odorless, and highly toxic
gas. It is produced primarily from incomplete combustion of fossil fuels,
including vehicle emissions, industrial processes, and residential heating.
Here are some key points about carbon monoxide (CO):
1. Health Effects: Carbon monoxide is dangerous because it can interfere
with the delivery of oxygen in the bloodstream. When inhaled, it binds to
hemoglobin in red blood cells, reducing their ability to carry oxygen to
vital organs and tissues. High levels of CO exposure can lead to
symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and in severe
cases, unconsciousness and even death.
2. Sources of CO: Carbon monoxide is emitted from various sources,
including vehicle exhaust, generators, gas stoves, furnaces, and industrial
processes. It is particularly concerning in enclosed or poorly ventilated
spaces, where CO can accumulate to dangerous levels.
3. Monitoring and Regulation: Governments and environmental agencies
monitor carbon monoxide levels in the air to assess air quality and protect
public health. Regulations and standards are in place to limit CO
emissions from different sources, including vehicle emission standards
and requirements for indoor combustion appliances.
4. Health Impacts and Vulnerable Populations: Carbon monoxide can have
more severe health effects on vulnerable populations, including infants,
elderly individuals, and people with respiratory or cardiovascular
conditions. They may be more susceptible to the harmful effects of CO
exposure.
5. Carbon Monoxide and Air Quality Index (AQI): Carbon monoxide is
one of the air pollutants included in the calculation of the Air Quality
Index (AQI). High levels of CO can contribute to poor air quality and
result in a higher AQI value, indicating a greater risk to human health.

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PM10:
PM10 refers to particulate matter with a diameter of 10 micrometers or smaller.
It includes a wide range of solid and liquid particles suspended in the air. These
particles can be emitted directly into the air or formed through chemical
reactions.
1. Size and Composition: PM10 refers to particles with a diameter of 10
micrometers or smaller. It includes various substances such as dust,
pollen, soot, smoke, and other fine particles. The composition of PM10
can vary depending on the sources and environmental conditions.
2. Health Effects: Inhalation of PM10 can have adverse effects on human
health. These particles are small enough to penetrate deep into the
respiratory system and can be deposited in the lungs. Short-term
exposure to high levels of PM10 can cause respiratory issues, exacerbate
asthma, and lead to coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Long-
term exposure to elevated PM10 levels has been associated with
respiratory and cardiovascular problems, reduced lung function, and
increased risk of premature death.
3. Sources of PM10: PM10 can originate from both natural and
anthropogenic sources. Natural sources include dust and pollen from soil,
vegetation, and geological activities. Anthropogenic sources include
emissions from industries, vehicles, construction activities, and other
combustion processes.
4. Monitoring and Regulation: Governments and environmental agencies
monitor PM10 levels in the air to assess air quality and protect public
health. Regulations and standards are in place to limit PM10 emissions
from various sources and reduce exposure to high levels of particulate
matter.
5. Air Quality Index (AQI) and PM10: PM10 is one of the air pollutants
included in the calculation of the Air Quality Index (AQI). High levels
of PM10 can contribute to poor air quality and result in a higher AQI
value, indicating a greater risk to human health.
Reducing PM10 pollution requires measures such as improving industrial
processes, implementing emission controls, promoting cleaner technologies,

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reducing dust from construction sites, and managing agricultural practices.
Public awareness about the health risks associated with PM10 and adopting
personal protective measures, such as wearing masks in polluted environments,
is also important for minimizing exposure and maintaining respiratory health.
SO2:
SO2 stands for sulfur dioxide, which is a colorless gas with a pungent odor. It
is produced mainly from the burning of fossil fuels, such as coal and oil, in
power plants, industrial processes, and residential heating systems. SO2 can
also be emitted from natural sources like volcanoes.
Here are some key points about sulfur dioxide (SO2):
1. Air Pollution: SO2 is a major air pollutant and contributes to the
formation of air pollution. When released into the atmosphere, SO2 can
react with other compounds to form secondary pollutants such as sulfuric
acid, sulfate aerosols, and fine particulate matter.
2. Health Effects: Inhalation of sulfur dioxide can have harmful effects on
human health. Short-term exposure to high levels of SO2 can irritate the
respiratory system, causing symptoms like coughing, wheezing, chest
tightness, and shortness of breath. Prolonged exposure to elevated SO2
concentrations may lead to chronic respiratory issues, worsen existing
respiratory conditions, and increase the risk of respiratory infections.
3. Environmental Impact: Sulfur dioxide emissions contribute to
environmental problems such as acid rain and smog. When SO2
combines with moisture in the air, it forms sulfuric acid, which can be
deposited on the ground or in bodies of water, causing harm to
ecosystems, forests, and aquatic life.

*AQI Calculation:
FIRST: Average Data: In the context of Air Quality Index (AQI)
data analysis, averaging is a vital concept that helps to assess and
understand the overall air quality conditions in a specific area or over
a given time period. Here's an explanation of the concept of averaging
and its relevance to AQI data analysis:

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Averaging Pollutant Concentrations: AQI data typically involves
measuring the concentrations of various pollutants, such as
particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur
dioxide (SO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and ozone (O3). Averaging
these pollutant concentrations allows us to determine the average
level of air pollution in a particular area or region.
Representing Overall Air Quality: By calculating the average
pollutant concentrations, we can derive a single value that represents
the overall air quality condition. This average value serves as a useful
summary statistic to understand the general air quality status and
compare it with air quality standards or guidelines.
Temporal Analysis: Averaging AQI data over specific time periods
(e.g., hourly, daily, and monthly) helps identify temporal patterns
and variations in air quality. It allows us to observe trends, such as
daily fluctuations or seasonal changes, and assess the effectiveness of
pollution control measures over time.
Comparison with Standards: Averaging pollutant concentrations and
calculating the AQI enables a straightforward comparison with
established air quality standards or guidelines. These standards define
different AQI categories, such as good, moderate, unhealthy, or
hazardous, based on specific pollutant thresholds. By averaging
pollutant concentrations and mapping them to the corresponding
AQI category, we can assess compliance with air quality standards
and determine the severity of air pollution.
Communicating Air Quality Information: Averaging AQI data
provides a concise and easily understandable representation of the air
quality conditions. It allows authorities, policymakers, and the public
to quickly grasp the overall air quality status and make informed
decisions regarding outdoor activities, health precautions, and
pollution control measures.

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It is important to note that averaging AQI data has its limitations.
Averages may not capture the full range of pollution levels or account
for localized pollution hotspots. Additionally, variations in pollutant
concentrations throughout the day or in different areas may require
more granular analysis. Nonetheless, averaging pollutant
concentrations and calculating the AQI is a valuable technique for
summarizing and interpreting air quality data, facilitating effective
decision-making and public awareness regarding air pollution.
Based on what was clarified from the previous points, we
calculated the rate for each gas from each city based on the
dates 5/5/2018 - 12/29/2021, and we obtained these results for
the purpose of comparison in the following figures:
1.PM

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2. SO2 (Amman & Zarqa `a)

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 4. Co(Amman & Irbid)

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 5. No2

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 *SECOND: Explaining the AQI equation and how the
AQI calculation is done is crucial for understanding and
interpreting air quality data. Here's an explanation:
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a standardized numerical
scale that translates air quality measurements into a single
value, providing a simplified way to communicate the level of
air pollution and its potential health effects. The AQI
calculation involves several steps:
Pollutant Concentrations which we got from the Ministry of
Environment with the help of Dr. Tariq Hussein, as we mentioned
earlier :
The first step is to measure the concentration of various pollutants,
such as particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide
(NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and ozone
(O3). These concentrations are usually measured in micrograms per
cubic meter (µg/m³) or parts per million (ppm).
Pollutant-specific Index: which we also obtained from the
Jordanian Ministry of Environment, as we mentioned in the data
collection section. However, it is okay to mention the specific
indicators in our study. The breaking points and PSI (Pollutant
Standards Index) for the AQI in Jordan are as follows:
1-PM10 (Particulate Matter From the smallest value to
10 micrometers or less in the largest value.
diameter)

Good: 0-54 µg/m3

Moderate: 55-154 µg/m3
Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups: 155-254 µg/m3
Unhealthy: 255-354 µg/m3
Very Unhealthy: 355-424 µg/m3
Hazardous: 425-504 µg/m3
Very Hazardous: 505-604 µg/m3

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 2-NO2 (Nitrogen Dioxide) From the smallest value to
the largest value.

Good: 0-53 ppb

Moderate: 54-100 ppb
Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups: 101-360 ppb
Unhealthy: 361-649 ppb
Very Unhealthy: 650-1249 ppb
Hazardous: 1250-1649 ppb
Very Hazardous: 1650-2049 ppb
3-SO2 (Sulfur Dioxide) From the smallest value to
the largest value.

Good: 0-35 ppb

Moderate: 36-75 ppb
Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups: 76-185 ppb
Unhealthy: 186-304 ppb
Very Unhealthy: 305-604 ppb
Hazardous: 605-804 ppb
Very Hazardous: 805-1004 ppb
4-CO (Carbon Monoxide) From the smallest value to
the largest value.

Good: 0-4.4 ppm (parts per million)

Moderate: 4.5-9.4 ppm
Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups: 9.5-12.4 ppm
Unhealthy: 12.5-15.4 ppm
Very Unhealthy: 15.5-30.4

Each pollutant has its own equation to calculate its individual index
value. These equations are established based on scientific research and
health effects associated with different pollutant concentrations. The
index values are usually nonlinear, meaning that higher pollutant
concentrations result in larger index increases.

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Sub-Index Calculation: Once the individual index values are
obtained for each pollutant, the next step is to determine the
sub-index value for the pollutant with the highest index. This
highest sub-index represents the dominant pollutant at a
given time.
Mapping to AQI Categories: The sub-index value is then
mapped to the corresponding AQI category using predefined
breakpoints or thresholds. Each AQI category (e.g., good,
moderate, unhealthy, hazardous) is associated with a specific
range of sub-index values. This mapping allows for easy
interpretation and comparison of air quality across different
locations and pollutants.
Explaining our AQI equation and how the AQI calculation
is done:
AQI = (Index High - Index Low) / (Concentration High -
Concentration Low) × (Concentration - Concentration
Low) + Index Low
Index High and Index Low: AQI values corresponding to
the upper and lower concentration breakpoints
Concentration High and Concentration Low:
Concentration values corresponding to the upper and lower
breakpoints
Concentration: Actual concentration.

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 For PM:
1-Example of Good PM value and it`s equation.

.
Fig.2: good PM example

2. Example of Moderate PM value and it`s equation.

.
Fig3: moderate PM example

2. Example of Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups PM value

and it`s
equation.

Fig3: unhealthy for

sensitive groups Example .

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3. Example of Very Unhealthy PM value and it`s equation.

Fig.4: Unhealthy PM example .

For So2:
1-Example of Good So2 value and it`s equation.

Fig.5: good So2 example.

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2. Example of Moderate So2 value and it`s equation.

Fig.6: moderate So2 example.

3. Example of Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups So2 value and

it`s equation.

Fig7: unhealthy for sensitive groups Example.

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 For No2:
1-Example of Good No2 value and it`s equation.

Fig.8: good No2 example.

2. Example of Moderate No2 value and it`s equation.

Fig.9: moderate No2 example.

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For Co:
1-Example of Good Co value and it`s equation.

Fig..10: good Co example.

*The results:
Thus, we have put examples of applying the
equation and how to replace the standard
indicators from the Ministry of Environment
with the concentrations that we have. We
followed and applied all the data from
5/5/2018-29/12/2020 for all gases and all cities,
and the results were as follows,

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1-PM AQi Charts result:

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 Fig.11: PM AQi Charts result(A+Z+I)

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-No2 AQi Charts result:

Fig.12: No2 AQi Charts result(A+Z+I)

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 Fig.13: No2 AQi Charts result(A+Z+I)

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 Fig.14: So2AQi Charts result(A+Z)

-So2 AQi Charts result:

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 Fig.15: Co AQi Charts result (A+I)

-Co AQi Charts result:

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*Interpretation of the results:

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*Conclusion:
In conclusion, the AQI study conducted in Amman, Zarqa, and Irbid
provides valuable insights into the air quality conditions in these
cities. The study aimed to assess and monitor the levels of air
pollution, identify the main sources of pollution, and understand the
potential health effects associated with the observed air quality.
Based on the data collected and analyzed, several key findings have
emerged:
1. Air Quality Levels: The AQI data revealed variations in air
quality levels across different locations and time periods in
Amman, Zarqa, and Irbid. The analysis indicated that certain
areas experienced higher levels of air pollution, while others
maintained relatively better air quality.
2. Dominant Pollutants: The study identified the dominant
pollutants contributing to air pollution in each city. These
included particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide
(NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and
ozone (O3). The concentrations of these pollutants were
assessed to determine their impact on overall air quality.
3. Sources of Pollution: The study explored the major sources of
pollution in Amman, Zarqa, and Irbid. These included
industrial emissions, vehicular traffic, residential activities, and
other anthropogenic factors. Understanding the sources of
pollution is crucial for implementing targeted mitigation
strategies and policy interventions.
4. Health Implications: The AQI study provided insights into the
potential health effects associated with the observed air quality
levels. Higher levels of air pollution, particularly elevated
concentrations of pollutants, were found to be correlated with
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 increased health risks, such as respiratory issues, cardiovascular
diseases, and other adverse health impacts.
5. Recommendations: Based on the findings, the study puts
forward several recommendations to improve air quality in
Amman, Zarqa, and Irbid. These recommendations include
implementing stricter emission standards for industries and
vehicles, promoting public transportation and alternative modes
of transportation, enhancing green spaces and urban planning,
and raising awareness among the public about the importance of
air quality and individual actions.
Overall, the AQI study underscores the significance of monitoring
and managing air quality to safeguard public health and promote
sustainable development. It serves as a foundation for informed
decision-making, policy formulation, and targeted interventions to
mitigate air pollution and improve the overall air quality in Amman,
Zarqa, and Irbid.
It is important to note that the findings and recommendations of this
study are based on the data collected up until the date of the study.
Continuous monitoring and regular updates are crucial to track the
progress of air quality improvement efforts and address emerging
challenges in the future.

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* References:

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