What percentage of monodispersed particles can HEPA filter out of the air?

A High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter is designed to capture a significant percentage of airborne particles, specifically those that are as small as 0.3 microns in diameter. The standard for HEPA filters is that they must be able to trap at least 99.97% of these particles that pass through them, which includes a variety of substances, including pollen, dust, mold spores, and even some bacteria and viruses.

This ability to filter out such a high percentage of monodispersed particles is what makes HEPA filters particularly effective in environments where air quality is crucial, such as hospitals, laboratories, and asbestos removal sites. The effectiveness is validated through rigorous testing, and the 99.97% figure represents an industry standard that reflects the filter's capability to reduce airborne contaminants significantly, resulting in cleaner air.

The other options list lower percentages, which do not meet the HEPA standard for particulate removal. Saying a filter traps at least 90% or 99% may imply effectiveness, but it does not capture the full efficiency established for HEPA filters, which is critical in ensuring safety and health in environments where air quality is paramount. The statement claiming at least 100% is inaccurate because a