The characteristic size of a pollen grain is about 3 times the characteristic size of a dust particle. Selected basis: a representative value for Dust particle; a representative value for Pollen grain; approximate values.
Both rulers start at the same zero and share one linear scale. Artwork keeps its original proportions.
10 µm - Characteristic size; representative.
Dust is a mixture of tiny solid particles from sources such as soil, fibres, skin and pollen. Its particles vary widely in material and size.
A chosen 10 µm particle. Dust is a mixture, not a single size or material.
University of Utah — Cell size and scale30 µm - Characteristic size; representative.
A pollen grain carries the male reproductive cells of a seed-producing plant. Its resistant outer wall has a form characteristic of the plant species.
A chosen 30 µm pollen grain. Plant species produce very different grains.
University of Utah — Cell size and scale
There’s always another scale
MicroscopicDust particle10 µmDust is a mixture of tiny solid particles from sources such as soil, fibres, skin and pollen.
MicroscopicPollen grain30 µmA pollen grain carries the male reproductive cells of a seed-producing plant.
Living thingsHoneybee1.5 cmA honeybee is a social insect that lives in a colony and gathers nectar and pollen from flowers.
Living thingsSmall ant5 mmAn ant is a social insect that lives in an organised colony, usually with workers, a queen and specialised roles.
Everyday thingsUS quarter2.426 cmA US quarter is a coin worth twenty-five cents, commonly used in United States currency.Side by side
Illustrative artwork · not to scale
Illustrative artwork · not to scale
Illustrative artwork · not to scale
Illustrative artwork · not to scaleGot a good eye for scale?