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Alpha radiation can cause damage to human cells by breaking chains of DNA inside the cell. If only one of the strands of DNA is broken then it should be possible to repair the molecule, although this is not possible if both DNA strands are broken.

Permanent damage to DNA does not always lead to cell death. An irradiated cell can divide uncontrollably, resulting in cancer.

Any mutations that occur in sex cells may be passed on to subsequent generations, leading to a greater chance of genetic disease.

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Why is alpha radiation so deadly to humans?

It is only deadly if ingested. The skin will stop alpha radiation. It does not have much penetrating power. When inside the body it can cause cellular damage which can lead to cancer.


Why do alpha and beta particles cause more damage if they are inside the?

Alpha and beta particles cause more damage if they are inside the body because they have a higher linear energy transfer (LET) compared to other types of radiation. This increased LET allows them to deposit more energy in a localized area, leading to greater damage to tissues and cells.


Why is alpha radiation dangerous inside the body?

Alpha radiation releases a large amount of energy in a short distance, which can cause significant damage to surrounding tissues. If alpha-emitting radioactive material is ingested or inhaled, it can come into direct contact with sensitive internal tissues, leading to cell damage and potential long-term health effects such as cancer.


Why is alpha radiation more harmful inside the body than outside it?

Alpha radiation is more harmful inside the body because alpha particles have a high ionizing power and are more likely to interact with cells and tissues, causing damage to DNA. When emitted outside the body, alpha particles can be stopped by skin or clothing and are less likely to penetrate deeply into tissues where they can cause harm.


Which of the 3 types of nuclear radiation does the most damage from inside living things?

Beta radiation tends to cause more damage from inside living things compared to alpha and gamma radiation. Beta particles are high-energy electrons that can penetrate more deeply into tissues, potentially causing harm at a cellular level.


Why do you need to take care not to get a source of radiation inside your body particularly alpha?

Alpha particles are low energy, and are pretty much stopped by your skin. However, if it is inside your body, it can do damage. With all radiation, the inverse square rule applies- 2x as far away, 1/4th the dose. 3x as far, 1/9th of the dose. 4x as far, 1/16th of the dose. But when a source is inside your body, you get ALL the radiation emitted. Old saying in working with radioactive material- time and distance are your friends.


Which type of radiation is most dangerous if it's inhaled or swallowed?

Alpha radiation is the most dangerous type of radiation when inhaled or swallowed, as it is highly ionizing and can cause significant damage to tissues. Its low penetration ability allows it to come in direct contact with internal organs, increasing its harmful effects.


IS Alpha particles dangerous in regards to external exposure?

Usually, no. Alpha particles may be able to cause a lot of damage if they can get inside you, but they can easily be stopped by a piece of paper.


Because of its low penetrating ability the type of radiation which is usually only a hazard when inhaled or ingested is?

Alpha radiation is usually only a hazard when inhaled or ingested because it has low penetrating ability and can be stopped by skin or paper. However, if alpha-emitting materials are inhaled or ingested, they can cause serious damage to internal tissues.


Damaging effects of alpha beta and gamma?

Alpha radiation is the most ionizing of the three radiations but can fortunately be stopped by a few centimetres of air or a thin sheet of paper. Beta and especially Gamma are less ionising but are more penetrative and therefore can cause damage while on the outside of the body (whereas alpha will only really cause damage inside).


Does radiation cause free radicals inside the body?

Yes, radiation can cause the formation of free radicals inside the body through interactions with molecules such as water. These free radicals can then damage cells and tissues, leading to health problems.


What are some ways in which radioactive elements can be dangerous?

Radiation, even in small doses, can cause cancer in humans and other living things Alpha radiation is responsible for most of the damage of DNA in living cells