contamination Flashcards
radioactive contamination
the unwanted presence of materials containing radioactive atoms on other materials
what could happen to contaminated atoms?
they might decay and release radiation
why is contamination dangerous?
radioactive particles could get inside your body
what should be used when handling sources?
gloves and tongs
protective suits
SHIELDING
monitoring
what does the amount of harm caused depend on?
the radiation type
which sources are most dangerous outside of the body? why?
beta and gamma as they can penetrate the body and get to delicate organs, unlike alpha as it can’t penetrate the skin
which sources are most dangerous inside of the body? why?
alpha as they are highly ionising, they do all their damage in a localised area unlike beta as their radiation is absorbed over a wider area, gamma rays pass out of the body
peer-review
-scientists have explored effects of radiation on humans for many years
-important the finding are shared with other scientists
-allows findings to be checked (peer-reviewed)