4.4.2.4 Radioactive Contamination

Question 1

Radioactive contamination:

Answer 1

• the unwanted presence of materials containing or having radioactive material on it
• lasts for long period of time
• poses higher level of risk than irradiation

Question 2

What is the hazard from contamination due to?

Answer 2

• hazard from contamination due to the decay of the contaminating atoms
• the type of radiation emitted affects the level of hazard

Question 3

Irridation:

Answer 3

• the process of exposing an object to nuclear radiation
• the irradiated object does not become radioactive
• lasts for short period of time (temporary)

Question 4

Precautions to take for irradiation:

Answer 4

• face radioactive source away from where you’re standing to reduce exposure
• lead barrier (shielding), stay behind a screen
• increase distance froms source e.g. use tongs to handle radioactive source (stay at safe distance)
• reduce exposure time
• don’t point radioactive source at people
• wear protective clothing
• leave room

Question 5

Precautions to take for contamination:

Answer 5

• use disposable glove, tongs etc. when handling radioactive source to prevent contact of source with skin
• minimise handling
• mask, suit etc.
• don’t drop - can create magments

Question 6

Why is it important for studies on the effects of radiation on humans to be published and shared with other scientists?

Answer 6

important for studies on the effects of radiation on humans to be published and shared with other scientisists so that the findings can be checked by peer review

Question 7

Why is contamination of human day by radioactive material that emits alpha decay highly dangerous?

Answer 7

• alpha decay is highly ionising
• increases risk of cancer
• until radioactive material is removed/excreted