why radiation is harmful

• What is irradiation?

  Irradiation is the process by which an object is exposed to radiation
• What types of radiation can cause irradiation?


  Both ionizing and non-ionizing radiation can cause irradiation
• What are examples of ionizing radiation?


  Alpha particles, beta particles, gamma rays, and x-rays
• What is contamination in the context of radiation?


  Contamination is when radioactive particles get onto other objects
• Why is contamination a concern?


  The concern is that the radioactive material may decay and irradiate you
• What factors determine how harmful radiation is?


  The type of radiation, the location of exposure, and the amount of radiation received
• Which type of radiation is generally considered the most dangerous?

  Ionizing radiation
• How can ionizing radiation affect DNA?


  It can ionize DNA, causing mutations
• What can mutations in DNA lead to?


  They can lead to uncontrolled cell division and cancer
• Which type of radiation can also lead to cancer, despite not always being considered ionizing?


  Ultraviolet radiation
• What is the order of radiation types from most harmful to least harmful?

  1. Alpha particles (most harmful when inside the body)
  2. Beta particles
  3. Gamma rays
  4. Ultraviolet radiation
  5. Microwave radiation
  6. Radio waves (least harmful)
• How does the location of the radiation source affect its harmfulness?


  If the source is outside the body, alpha radiation is less harmful due to its inability to penetrate skin
• What happens to alpha radiation when the source is outside the body?


  It gets stopped by a short distance of air and cannot penetrate the skin
• Which types of radiation are the most dangerous when the source is outside the body?

  Beta and gamma radiation
• What is the most dangerous type of radiation if the source is on or inside the body?

  Alpha radiation
• What does the dosage of radiation depend on?


  It depends on the distance from the source, the duration of exposure, and the radioactivity of the substance
• What precautions should be taken to minimize irradiation and avoid contamination?


  • Wear protective gear (gloves, overalls)
  • Use tools (like tongs) to handle radioactive items
  • Keep radioactive items in lead-lined boxes
• Can being irradiated cause someone to mutate into a mutant?


  No, being irradiated cannot cause mutations in that way
• Can a person who has been irradiated emit radiation to others?


  No, only if they are carrying a radioactive source can they emit radiation
• What is the main difference between irradiation and contamination?

  • Irradiation: Exposure to radiation
  • Contamination: Radioactive particles on objects