What device is used in respirators to trap and remove contaminants from the air being breathed by the wearer?

The correct answer is a filter, as it plays a crucial role in respirators by trapping and removing airborne contaminants, including dust, fumes, and other harmful particles. Filters are designed to capture harmful substances while allowing clean air to pass through, ensuring that the wearer breathes in safe air.

In many respirators, the filter can be part of a combination system that might include other components like chemical cartridges or canisters, but the fundamental element responsible for the primary filtration process is indeed the filter. Respiration safety relies on the efficiency of these filters, making them integral to the overall protective function of the respirator.

Other options, while related to respiratory protection, do not specifically refer to the main device responsible for trapping contaminants. For instance, a canister may contain filters but is typically focused on chemical vapors, while a respiratory mask simply refers to the entire unit of protection, and a pesticide scrubber is more specialized for specific applications, not general air filtration in a respirator.