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Why does alpha radiation cause damage to cells inside the human body?
Wiki User
∙ 14y ago
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.
Wiki User
∙ 14y ago
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What are the negative facts about UV?
UV Radiation is that found in sunlight. A negative of this is that it can cause damage to the skin and can pose a greater risk for skin cancer.If you have overexposure it can also damage the eyes and cause a greater risk for cataracts.
What can radiation cause?
Radiation can cause sunburn, cancer, genetic mutation.
What damage can a 9 mm handgun do to the head chest and addomen?
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What caused 81 billion dollars of damage?
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Why is cushion materials used in collision?
By getting compressed, the cushioning material absorbs some of the energy of the collision. This leaves less force to cause injury or damage.
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.
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 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.
Why do you need to take care not to get a source of radiation inside your body particularly alpha?
Alpha radiation is the most damaging type of radiation if ingested because the high energy alpha particles can cause significant damage to internal tissues. When alpha-emitting materials are inside the body, they can deposit their energy directly into surrounding cells, increasing the risk of cancer and other health effects. This is why it is critical to avoid ingesting sources of alpha radiation and to ensure proper containment and handling of any materials that emit alpha particles.
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.
Damaging effects of alpha beta and gamma?
Alpha radiation can cause damage by ionizing nearby atoms, potentially leading to DNA mutations and increasing cancer risk. Beta radiation can penetrate deeper into the body than alpha radiation, causing tissue damage and increasing the risk of cancer. Gamma radiation is highly penetrating and can damage cells and tissues throughout the body, increasing the risk of cancer and other health problems.
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.
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.
Medical hazards of breathing alpha radiation?
Breathing in alpha radiation can lead to lung damage, inflammation, and an increased risk of developing lung cancer. Alpha particles are highly ionizing and can cause DNA damage in lung tissue, increasing the likelihood of mutations that may lead to cancer. Protective measures such as respiratory equipment and proper ventilation are essential in environments with potential alpha radiation exposure.
