There isn't actually any oxygen in the oxygen masks. Instead, there are several chemicals that, when combined, mimic breathable oxygen (including obscure-sounding compounds like barium peroxide and sodium chlorate, among others).
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If the cabin pressure drops when the aircraft is above 14,000 then oxygen masks are automatically deployed. The equipment has a yellow silicone facial mask and is fitted with elastic that is adjusted by pulling on the ties. It also has a re-breather bag that may or may not inflate depending on the altitude.
But have you ever considered where the oxygen that flows through those masks comes from? It might surprise you to learn that, for most passenger aircraft, the answer is a chemical reaction. A small metal cylinder-shaped container is located above each row of seats and the masks are attached to these.
In any case, the mask is providing at least 122 mmHG of oxygen, as required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The masks supply supplemental oxygen for a short duration. According to FAA's CFR 91.211(b)(i), every occupant must have at least 10 minutes of oxygen on any flight above flight level 250.
Without oxygen, you will quickly feel drowsy and even euphoric, a phenomenon known as hypoxia, but as time passes, continued lack of oxygen to the brain will lead to blackouts, passing out, and possibly even death.
The flimsy little bag is there to catch the stream of oxygen in between your breaths so it isn't wasted. That's it. It only inflates while you are exhaling, provided you are breathing slowly enough. That's why it might not inflate (you might not give it a chance, you panicky rascal).