Final answer:
Passenger oxygen masks are automatically deployed when the cabin altitude is greater than 14,500 ft or when an emergency descent is initiated by the crew.
Step-by-step explanation:
In airplanes, passenger oxygen masks are automatically deployed under specific conditions:
- Altimetric valve senses that cabin altitude is greater than 14,500 ft: When the cabin altitude exceeds 14,500 ft, the masks are automatically deployed to provide oxygen to the passengers. This ensures their safety at high altitudes where the oxygen levels are lower.
- Emergency descent is initiated: If an emergency descent is initiated by the crew, the masks are deployed to provide oxygen to the passengers during the descent.
These mechanisms ensure that passengers have access to oxygen in case of high altitude or emergency situations during flights.