Radiation

Question 1

What is the difference between ionizing and non-ionizing radiation? What are some examples of each?

Answer 1

Non-ionizing: not enough energy to break chemicl bonds (ex: microwave, TV, visible light)
Ionizing: enough energy to break chemical bonds in molecules and form ions (ex: x-rays, chemical waste)

Question 2

What are the three forms of radioactive decay? Describe what they are and how harmful they could be to the human body)

Answer 2

1. Alpha decay (larger, 2 neutrons & 2 protons, internal hazard)
2. Beta decay (1 electron, internal + slight external hazard)
3. Gamma decay (energy, internal + external hazard)

Question 3

What two radiation units were mentioned as relevant to human health?

Answer 3

gray +

Question 4

What are three ways we can protect ourselves from exposure to ionizing radiation?

Answer 4

1. shielding (each type of particle can be stopped by certain materials w gamma being the hardest to shield from)
2. limit amt of time exposed
3. Distance (further from source = less exposure)