Key Stage 4
Meaning
The hazard symbol for ionising radiation.
Ionising Radiation is radiation which can cause atoms to lose electrons and become ions.
About Ionising Radiation
- Ionising radiation damages living organisms.
- Ionising radiation may kill cells by damaging the parts inside them, particularly the DNA.
- Ionising radiation can cause the appearance of burns to the skin. A high enough dose of Ionising Radiation can cause instant death.
- The units of exposure to ionising radiation are the Sievert which is 1 Joule of energy from ionising radiation being absorbed by 1 kilogram of flesh.
In Nuclear Physics there are three types of ionising radiation:
Ionising Radiation and Cancer
- Exposure to ionising radiation is a risk factor in cancer.