Topic 5.20–5.21: Dangers of electromagnetic radiation
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13 Terms
How does the potential danger of electromagnetic radiation generally change with frequency?
Higher-frequency radiation generally has greater potential to damage cells because its photons carry more energy.
How can excessive exposure to microwaves harm people?
Microwaves can heat internal body tissues and cells.
How can excessive exposure to infrared radiation harm people?
Infrared radiation can cause skin burns.
How can excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation harm people?
It can damage surface cells and eyes, increasing the risk of skin cancer and eye conditions.
How can X-rays harm people?
They are ionising radiation and can damage cells and DNA, causing mutations and increasing cancer risk.
How can gamma rays harm people?
They are highly penetrating ionising radiation that can damage cells and DNA, causing mutations and increasing cancer risk.
Which electromagnetic radiations are ionising in the GCSE spectrum?
The highest-frequency ultraviolet can be ionising, and X-rays and gamma rays are ionising; GCSE treatments commonly emphasise X-rays and gamma rays as ionising radiation.
Why are X-rays and gamma rays more dangerous to cells than visible light?
Their photons have enough energy to ionise atoms and damage DNA.
What is ionisation?
The removal of electrons from atoms or molecules, producing ions.
How can exposure to harmful electromagnetic radiation be reduced?
Limit exposure time, increase distance from the source where appropriate, and use suitable shielding.
Why can ultraviolet radiation damage DNA?
UV radiation can cause chemical changes in DNA, potentially leading to mutations and cancer.
Why must exposure to X-rays be controlled during medical imaging?
To minimise unnecessary radiation dose and reduce the risk of cell damage.
Why can gamma rays be used to treat cancer despite being dangerous?
They can be directed at cancerous tissue to destroy cancer cells, while treatment is carefully planned to limit damage to healthy tissue.