Why Radiation is Harmful

Cards (17)

  • What is irradiation?
    Exposure of an object to radiation
  • What types of radiation can cause irradiation?
    Ionizing and non-ionizing radiation
  • What are examples of ionizing radiation?
    Alpha particles, beta particles, gamma rays, x-rays
  • What are examples of non-ionizing radiation?
    Ultraviolet and microwave radiation
  • What does contamination refer to?
    Radioactive particles on other objects
  • Why is contamination a concern?
    It increases the risk of irradiation
  • What factors determine how harmful radiation is?
    Type of radiation, exposure location, dosage
  • Why are ionizing radiations considered more dangerous?
    They can enter cells and ionize DNA
  • What can ionizing radiation cause in DNA?
    Mutations
  • What rare condition can mutations lead to?
    Uncontrolled cell division and cancer
  • Which type of radiation can lead to cancer, even if not ionizing?
    Ultraviolet radiation
  • How does the harmfulness of radiation change based on its source location?
    • Alpha radiation is most harmful inside the body
    • Beta and gamma radiation are more dangerous outside the body
    • Alpha cannot penetrate skin, but beta and gamma can
  • What factors influence the dosage of radiation exposure?
    Distance, exposure time, radioactivity level
  • What precautions should be taken around radioactive sources?
    • Wear protective gear (gloves, overalls)
    • Use tools (tongs) to handle items
    • Store items in lead-lined boxes
  • Can being irradiated cause mutations or make someone radioactive?
    No, it cannot cause mutations or radioactivity
  • When can someone harm others with radiation?
    When carrying a radioactive source
  • What is the main difference between irradiation and contamination?
    • Irradiation: exposure to radiation
    • Contamination: radioactive particles on objects