Can particulates larger than 10 microns penetrate easily into the respiratory tract?

Particulates larger than 10 microns typically do not penetrate deeply into the respiratory tract. This is due to the anatomy and physiology of the respiratory system, which includes various defense mechanisms such as mucus production and the ciliary action of epithelial cells that trap and expel larger particles. Particulates of this size are generally filtered out in the upper respiratory tract, including the nose and throat, before they can reach the lungs.

Inhaled particles smaller than 10 microns are more likely to penetrate into the lower respiratory tract, reaching the bronchi and alveoli where gas exchange occurs. Therefore, the assertion that particulates larger than 10 microns can easily penetrate into the respiratory system is inaccurate.