dangers of radioactivity

Question 1

what does radioactive background activity come from

Answer 1

cosmic rays from space, rocks and soil

Question 2

do living things absorb radioactive material

Answer 2

yes

Question 3

how can we minimise the risk when using radioactive materials

Answer 3

We can minimise the risk to those using radioactive materials by:
* wearing protective clothing;
* keeping the source as far away as possible by using tongs;
* being exposed to the source for as short a time as possible;
* keeping radioactive materials in lead-lined containers.]

Question 4

how does human activity add to the amount of radiation

Answer 4

also adds to the background activity that we are exposed to through medical
X-rays, radioactive waste from nuclear power plants and the radioactive fallout from nuclear
weapons testing

Question 5

when is alpha radiation not dangerous

Answer 5

when the source is outside the body because it cannot pass through the skin

Question 6

can beta and gamma radiation penetrate the skin

Answer 6

yes

Question 7

when will alpha radiation damage cells

Answer 7

when it is had been breathed in or swallowed