UC Merced Undergraduate Research Journal

This study presents a parallel analysis of indoor air quality in UC Merced dormitories with outdoor air pollution levels within Yosemite Valley, underscoring the importance of understanding how outdoor pollution impacts indoor air quality and offers insights for improving environmental health practices in residential and natural settings. Data was collected from October 2 to October 9, with indoor air samples taken twice daily, once in the morning and once at night, focusing on particulate matter in the size of 2.5 and 10 micrometers (PM2.5 and PM10). Outdoor pollution data for the same period was obtained from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) website. The analysis reveals unique patterns in PM2.5 and PM10 measurements across indoor and outdoor environments, reflecting the influence of human activity indoors and environmental conditions outdoors. Factors such as dormitory ventilation, occupancy, andregional atmospheric conditions contribute to these differences.