How do gas masks work? How does the mask differentiate breathable air from poison gas?

Question

Don’t we inhale huge amounts of poison when breathing through the gas mask?

In: 3

Answer 1

Some masks have filters in them, others like the ones firefighters use have bottles of clean air attached. Filters are made for types of chemicals, like acid, chlorine, or organics. There isn’t a one-type-fits-all filter for chemicals. If there is low oxygen or other gases that can’t be filtered, like carbon monoxide, then the air bottles are used. The masks form a seal on the face. When breathing in, the low pressure holds a seal in the mask shut. When breathing out the pressure allows the seal to open to let breath escape.