P2 - Nuclear radiations

Question 1

Why are so many nuclear power stations in the UK located on the coast?

Answer 1

This is because the water is needed to cool the radioactive waste.

Question 2

Describe what can happen to a body cell if it is exposed to radiation.

Answer 2

1) the cells in our body are made up of atoms
2) DNA can be changed due to ionization
3) this causes a mutation which can lead to cancer

Question 3

How is radioactive waste disposed?

Answer 3

• low level radiation is buried in landfill sites
• high level radiation is encased un stainless steel containers and is buried deep underground
• some waste can be reprocessed into new and useful radioactive material

Question 4

What are the advantages to using nuclear power stations?

Answer 4

• no fossil fuels are used

- no pollution or greenhouse gasses are discharged into the atmosphere

Question 5

What are the disadvantages to using nuclear power stations?

Answer 5

• high risk of accidents

- very high cost of maintenance

Question 6

How does radiation work in a smoke alarm?

Answer 6

1) the radiation ionizes the oxygen and nitrogen atoms in the air
2) this causes a small current that is detected
3) when there is smoke, the air is not as ionized and the current stops