Question

which of the following statements about secondhand smoke is not true? a. the particles found in secondhand smoke are smaller than the particles found in firsthand smoke. b. secondhand smoke can have higher concentration of dangerous chemicals than firsthand smoke. c. secondhand smoke is inhaled less deeply than firsthand smoke. d. breathing secondhand smoke is at least as dangerous as breathing firsthand smoke.

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• Option A: Secondhand smoke has particles (like fine particles) that are part of it, so this is true.
• Option B: Secondhand smoke can have higher concentrations of some dangerous chemicals (due to incomplete combustion and mixing with air), so this is true.
• Option C: Secondhand smoke is inhaled less deeply? This is incorrect. In fact, the depth of inhalation isn't a defining factor of "less" for secondhand vs firsthand; also, secondhand smoke is as dangerous in terms of health impacts related to inhalation depth isn't a valid distinction (and the other options are supported by science).
• Option D: Breathing secondhand smoke is at least as dangerous as firsthand in many health aspects (e.g., cancer risk, respiratory issues), so this is true.

Answer:

C. Secondhand smoke is inhaled less deeply than firsthand smoke.