Explain how active and passive smoking differ, and why passive exposure is still a respiratory health concern.

### Why this is right A strong answer distinguishes voluntary tobacco use from involuntary exposure, then explains that passive exposure still brings smoke toxins into the respiratory system. The material identifies children and older adults as especially vulnerable groups. ### The concept Active smoking involves deliberately inhaling smoke from tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, or pipes. Passive smoking occurs when a person breathes smoke from other people's tobacco use. This difference in choice does not make passive exposure safe: passive smokers inhale many of the same harmful components. Smoke can irritate airways, affect oxygen availability, and increase respiratory health risks. Smoke-free environments reduce the chance that non-smokers will be exposed. ### What a good answer covers - The difference between intentional and involuntary inhalation. - The presence of harmful smoke components in passive exposure. - At least one respiratory effect or health concern. - The particular vulnerability of children or older adults. ### Terms - **Active smoking**: Intentional inhalation of tobacco smoke. - **Passive smoking**: Involuntary inhalation of tobacco smoke produced by others. - **Respiratory**: Relating to breathing and the lungs. ### Remember Secondhand exposure remains a health concern because harmful smoke reaches the lungs even when the exposed person does not smoke.