ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Mechanical filter (respirator)

A mechanical filter is a special type of mask you put on your face that helps to protect you from breathing in harmful things like dust, pollen, and germs. Inside this mask, there are many tiny fibers that trap these things and keep them from getting into your lungs.

Imagine you are playing in a sandbox and you accidentally kick up some dust. You breathe in some of that dust, which is not good for your lungs. But if you had a mechanical filter on your face, the tiny fibers inside would trap the dust particles and prevent them from getting into your lungs.

Another example is if you are sick with a cold or the flu. When you cough or sneeze, tiny droplets come out of your nose and mouth that can spread germs to other people. If you wear a mechanical filter, the fibers inside the mask can trap these droplets and prevent them from spreading to others.

So, a mechanical filter is like a special mask that helps keep you safe from breathing in harmful things that can hurt your lungs or spread sickness to other people.