Final answer:
The N95 mask provides the greatest level of protection against respiratory pathogens like COVID-19, filtering out at least 95% of airborne particles.
Step-by-step explanation:
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of masks was widely adopted as a measure to prevent the spread of the virus. Among the options provided, the N95 mask offers the greatest level of protection. The N95 respirator is designed to fit tightly around the nose and mouth and filters out at least 95% of airborne particles, including large and small particles. In contrast, surgical masks are loose-fitting and primarily protect against large droplets, splashes, or sprays, but do not filter out small particles as effectively as N95 respirators. Cloth masks can vary widely in their effectiveness based on the type of fabric, the number of layers, and the fit. No mask, of course, provides no protection against the transmission of respiratory diseases.