Environment: Inhaling soot is a bad chess move

Description

Chess players who breathe relatively high levels of fine soot particles may be more likely to make mistakes, researchers say. Previous studies have linked fine particulate matter with brain diseases and decreased cognitive function; the new investigation used a controlled method to focus on the pollutants’ effects on high-pressure, rapid-fire decision-making. The authors examined 609 chess matches across three different tournaments between 2017 and 2019. They adjusted for the skill level of each player’s opponent and used artificial intelligence to assess the quality of each side’s moves. (It defined as errors moves that put the player in position to lose.) The research team also used sensors in the competition halls to measure levels of PM2.5 particles—fine particulate matter measuring 2.5 microns or less. The group found that an increase in PM2.5 particles of 10 micrograms per cubic meter raised the probability that players made a mistake by 26%. The scientists found no effect on performance from increased levels of carbon dioxide or temperature. The range of PM2.5 levels measured was similar to those found in U.S. cities. The findings highlight the need for installing air filters that can eliminate the small particles, the authors say. Their study was published last week in Management Science.