Use of radiation Flashcards
1
Q
Why is radiation harmful?
A
Because it is ionising (the ability to knock electrons out of atoms)
2
Q
What can radiation cause in humans?
A
Can cause mutations to DNA leading to cancer or can kill the cell
3
Q
What do smoke detectors use?
A
Alpha radiation
4
Q
What uses beta radiation?
A
Thickness monitors
5
Q
What are some medical uses of radiation?
A
Can be used to explore internal organs and control or
destroy unwanted tissues
6
Q
What can gamma radiation be used for?
A
Be used to kill cancer cells
7
Q
Beta and gamma can be used as what?
A
A tracer; the half-life must be long enough to detect
but not too long
8
Q
Where do natural sources of background radiation come from?
A
- cosmic rays (12.5%)
- food and drink (12.5%)
- rocks and buildings (12.5%)
- radon gas (50%)
9
Q
Where do man-made sources of radiation (12.5%) come from?
A
- nuclear fallout from weapon tests
- nuclear disasters
- medical uses.
