NUCLEAR POLLUTION

Question 1

DEFINE RADIATION. AND SHARE SOME LIGHT ON ITS 2 PARTS

Answer 1

Radiation is energy that can travel through any medium, even empty space. It comes in two types:

1. Ionising Radiation: High-energy radiation that can break apart atoms and molecules, creating ions.
2. Non-Ionising Radiation: Lower-energy radiation that cannot break apart atoms or molecules.

Question 2

DEFINE RADIATION POLLUTION

Answer 2

It is the presence of harmful levels of ionising or non-ionising radiation in the environment, caused by human activities or natural sources, which can damage living organisms and ecosystems.

Question 3

WHAT ARE SOME CAUSES/SOURCES OF NUCLEAR HAZARDS

Answer 3

Causes/Sources of Nuclear Hazards:

1. Natural Sources:
   
   • Cosmic Radiation: Comes from outer space but is weak on Earth. It’s stronger in space.
   • Terrestrial Radiation: Comes from natural materials like uranium, thorium, and radon found in the Earth. Usually harmless at low levels.
2. Man-Made Sources:
   
   • Mining and processing of radioactive ores.
   • Nuclear weapons.
   • Use of radioactive materials in medicine, research, and industry.
   • Nuclear power plants.

In short, nuclear hazards come from natural sources like cosmic rays and Earth’s materials, and human activities like mining, weapons, and power plants.

Question 4

LIST SOME EFFECTS OF NUCLEAR HAZARDS

Answer 4

1. Somatic Effects: These are effects that appear in the person exposed to radiation.
   
   • Acute Exposure: High radiation doses (like 400 RAD) can cause immediate issues, such as temporary hair loss, which grows back but might look different.
   • Chronic Exposure: Lower doses over time can lead to long-term problems like cancer or cataracts, which show up years later.
2. Genetic Effects: These affect future generations. Radiation can damage reproductive cells, causing abnormalities or health issues in the children or grandchildren of the exposed person.

In short, nuclear radiation can harm the exposed person (somatic effects) or their future family (genetic effects).

Question 5

WRITE SOME MEASURES TO CONTROL NUCLEAR HAZARDS

Answer 5

1. Shielding: Use materials like lead or concrete to block radiation.
2. Distance: Stay as far away as possible from radiation sources.
3. Time: Limit exposure time to reduce radiation absorption.
4. Protective Gear: Wear suits, masks, and gloves to minimize contact.
5. Monitoring: Regularly check radiation levels with detectors.
6. Safe Disposal: Properly store and dispose of nuclear waste.
7. Regulations: Follow strict safety guidelines and protocols.

These steps help reduce risks and protect people and the environment from nuclear hazards.