P4 - atomic structure

• Irradiation


  Exposure to radiation
• Contamination


  Radioactive particles getting onto objects
• Risks to Using Radiation


  • Radiation can enter cells and cause damage
  • Radiation can damage or kill cells
• It is important to know the regulations to follow when working with radiation
• Exposure to Radiation is called Irradiation
• Objects that are exposed to a radioactive source are irradiated by it
• Something does not become radioactive just by being near a radioactive source
• Storing radioactive sources in lead-lined containers and standing behind barriers are common ways of reducing the effects of radiation
• In some industries, the radioactive source may be in a different room or behind a remote-controlled arm
• Contamination is when radioactive particles get onto an object
• If radioactive particles get onto or into an object, the object is said to be contaminated
• Contaminated objects can then decay, releasing additional radiation
• Contamination is especially dangerous because radioactive particles could get inside the body
• Protective equipment should be used when handling sources, to avoid particles getting stuck to skin or clothing
• Some industrial workers wear protective suits to stop fine radioactive particles getting onto them
• Seriousness of irradiation and contamination

  Depends on the type of radioactive source
• Outside the body, beta and gamma sources are the most dangerous
• This is because beta and gamma can penetrate the body and reach internal organs
• Alpha radiation is less dangerous because it can't penetrate the skin and is easily blocked
• High levels of irradiation from all sources are dangerous, but especially from beta and gamma emitters
• Inside the body, alpha sources are the most dangerous, because they do all their damage in a very localised area
• For contamination, the major concern when working with alpha sources is the localised damage, rather than irradiation
• Beta sources are less damaging inside the body, as radiation is absorbed over time and some passes out of the body
• Gamma sources are the least dangerous inside the body, as they mostly pass straight out
• Understanding how different types of radiation affect the body helps us protect ourselves when using them
• Research on this is important, as the data is peer-reviewed and can lead to improvements in the use of radioactive sources
• If something is radioactive, don't lick it