Final answer:
The correct answer is Option A, where fomites are inanimate objects, droplet transmission is via large respiratory droplets, and droplet nuclei consist of small respiratory droplets.
Step-by-step explanation:
The characteristics of fomites, droplet transmission, and droplet nuclei are as follows:
- Fomites: Inanimate objects that may harbor microbes and aid in disease transmission.
- Droplet transmission: Involves large respiratory droplets expelled from an infected person's respiratory system, which can directly deposit the pathogen on a susceptible host's mucus membranes.
- Droplet nuclei: The small particles (small respiratory droplets) that remain suspended in the air for longer periods and can be inhaled, leading to infection.
The correct answer to the student's question is Option A: Fomites are inanimate objects; droplet transmission involves large respiratory droplets; droplet nuclei consist of small respiratory droplets that can become airborne.