Topic 4 - atomic structure ( 5. irradiation and contamination )

Question 1

what do we called objects that are near a radioactive source

Answer 1

irradiated objects

Question 2

are irradiated objects radioactive

Answer 2

no but exposure to radiation can be harmful to living things.

Question 3

how to reduce risk of irradiation

Answer 3

lead-lined box, standing behind barriers, being in a different room and using remote-controlled gloves to handle sources

Question 4

what is an object called if unwated radio active atoms get on to it.

Answer 4

contaminated

Question 5

what happens if a living thing touches a radioactive source with our hands

Answer 5

our hands would be contaminated. these contaminating atoms can decay, releasing radiation that can cause harm

Question 6

what types of radiation are the most dangerous outside the body

Answer 6

beta and gamma sources because they can penetrate the body and get to delicate orgaNS (high levels of irradiation)

Question 7

what types of radiation are the most dangerous inside the body

Answer 7

alpha, all damage is done in a very localised area. (high levels of contamination)