Radiactivity And Nuclear Energy

Question 1

Which type of radiation is most appropriate for the sterilisation of metallic surgical instruments?

Answer 1

Gamma, as it is most penetrating

Question 2

Explain why irradiated surgical instruments do not become radioactive once sterilised

Answer 2

Ionising radiation only affects outer electrons and not the nucleus

Question 3

What is the main source of nuclear waste produced by a nuclear reactor and how is it treated?

Answer 3

Used fuel rods, kept underwater, cools and contains radiation of rods, then put into steel drums and lead lined containers and buried deep underground

Question 4

What are some problems faced in dealing with waste and how are these overcome?

Answer 4

Steel containers can rust with water, dealt with by burying under impermeable clay or using vitrification process, where drums are encased in glass which does not rust