WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF RADIATION? - alpha - stopped by outer layer of skin
beta - will pass through body stopped by thin metal
gamma - pass through body, only stobbed by thick lead or concrete
On contact with skin, radiation can damage living cells, leading to range of illnesses including cancer, sterility, mutations, leukaemia
actual impact depends upon type and intensity of radiation, source of radiation (inside or outside body), duration of exposure and location (organs affect
Alpha: dangerous if inside body – inhalation or ingestion; less dangerous if source outside body
Beta and gamma: can penetrate body hence dangerous if inside or outside
All radionuclides can accumulate in certain organs (eg kidneys, lungs) or bone marrow, leading to higher intensity of radiation and higher risk of cell damage
Overall risk of damage also greater for certain groups: infants, pregnant women, older people