Radiation Effects Flashcards
What are nonstochastic effects?
Effects for which a threshold exists and for which the severity of the effects increases with dose.
Examples include erythema of skin, cataracts, and infertility.
What are stochastic effects?
Effects which have no threshold and for which the probability of occurrence is a function of dose. Severity is independent of dose.
Examples include cancer, genetic effects, and embryological effects.
If the ion pairs and free radicals are produced in a biological target (DNA) then this is _____ action.
Direct
______ LET radiation undergo direct interactions.
HIGH
What are examples of HIGH LET radiation?
Protons
Electrons
Alpha particles
Neutrons
If water or other atoms or molecules are ionized l, diffusible free radicals can act as intermediaries to cause damage, termed _____ action.
Indirect action
________ LET radiation causes indirect interactions.
LOW
What are types of low LET interactions?
X rays
Gamma rays
What results from indirect interactions?
Free radicals
What is an example of indirect interactions in cells?
Radiolysis of water
What percentage of a cell is composed of water?
80%
What are the products of water (H2O) radiolysis?
OH- and H+ ions, along with free electrons (e-)
What ions are produced from the radiolysis of water?
OH- and H+
Are the OH- and H+ ions stable?
No, they are both unstable
What additional particle is produced during the radiolysis of water?
Free electron (e-)
