PPT - 211 - SCIENCE 10 - EFFECTS OF ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION

Effects of Electromagnetic Radiation in Living Things and the Environment

  • Author: Michael Jayson D. Mallari, Caloocan National Science and Technology High School

Most Essential Learning Competency

  • Explain the effects of EM radiation on living things and the environment.

  • MELC: Most Essential Learning Competency

Specific Learning Objectives

  1. Classify EM Waves:

    • Differentiate between ionizing and non-ionizing radiation based on energy levels.

  2. Explain Effects:

    • Discuss the effects of EM wave applications on living organisms and the environment.

  3. Evaluate Risks and Benefits:

    • Assess the risks and benefits related to the application of EM waves.

  4. Radiation Safety Principles:

    • Understand the principles of EM radiation safety and their societal importance.

Electromagnetic Spectrum Regions

  • Regions:

    • Radio Waves

    • Microwaves

    • Infrared Waves

    • Visible Light

    • Ultraviolet

    • X-rays

    • Gamma Rays

Characteristics of EM Waves

  • Longest Wavelength:

    • Radio waves, ranging from 10^-1 m to 10^4 m.

  • Shortest Wavelength:

    • Gamma rays, ranging from 10^-14 m to 10^-10 m.

Frequency of EM Waves

  • Greatest Frequency:

    • Gamma rays (> 3 x 10^19 Hz).

  • Least Frequency:

    • Radio waves (30 kHz to 3,000 MHz).

  • Comparison of Frequencies:

    • Ultraviolet has a greater frequency than infrared.

    • X-rays have longer wavelengths than gamma rays.

    • Microwaves have a greater frequency than radio waves.

Applications of Electromagnetic Waves

  • Bluetooth Technology:

    • Operates using radio waves.

  • UV Radiation:

    • Prolonged exposure can lead to sunburns and skin cancer.

  • Radiographs:

    • Used for medical diagnosis, including lung problems.

Ionizing vs Non-Ionizing Radiation

  • Classification of EM Radiation:

    • Non-Ionizing Radiation:

      • Does not change chemical composition due to ionization; generally safer (e.g., radio waves to low energy UV).

    • Ionizing Radiation:

      • Has sufficient energy to change chemical composition; potentially harmful (e.g., x-rays, gamma rays).

Health Effects of EM Radiation

  • Non-Ionizing Radiation:

    • Generally more beneficial, but overexposure can lead to health hazards like burns, pain, and blindness (infrared and visible).

  • Ionizing Radiation Exposure:

    • Medical x-rays can facilitate diagnosis, but excessive exposure may lead to severe health risks.

Radiation Safety Principles

  • Protection from Radiation:

    • Limit exposure time, increase distance from sources, and use shielding materials.

  • Understanding Exposure:

    • As exposure time increases, risk of harm increases.

    • Radiation can be absorbed by materials that shield users from sources.

    • Greater distance from radiation sources reduces risk.

  • Exposure Measurements:

    • Exposure measured in roentgens (R).

    • Absorbed dose measured in grays (Gy).

Evaluating Radiation Exposure

  • Safety Measures:

    • Use umbrellas and sunscreen against UV radiation.

    • Limit screen time and maintain distance from gadgets.

    • Radiologic technologists should use PPE to protect against excessive radiation.

Conclusion

  • Overall understanding of EM radiation's effects helps to identify risks and benefits, facilitating informed decisions regarding exposure and safety.