0
Because they emit what is called Ionising Radiation, which is harmful to living organisms. In the short term it causes damage to the bone marrow, upsetting the blood composition, and causing death in a few days if enough radiation is absorbed. In the long term cancers may be caused. People working with radiation are all monitored and exposure is limited to safe levels
Radioactive substances emit ionizing radiation, which can damage living tissues, DNA, and cells. Exposure to high levels of radiation can cause acute radiation sickness, increase the risk of cancer, and have long-term health effects. Therefore, radioactive substances are potentially hazardous to human health and the environment.
Radioactive elements give off very energetic charged particles. Or if Neutrons, even more dangerous again.
These high energy emissions can knock an electron from its orbit, thus changing the chemical being of the element. Or even knock part of the nucleus astray.
In either case, the chemical nature and structure ofter damaged element is changed, and the piece of chemical molecule, or even DNA, is no longer able to function. They may change an atom into an ionized 'free radical' and this can cause a cancer.
Neutrons, because of their neutral character, are not deflected by the electric charges in the atom, and thus have greater penetrating power. In this mode, they are used to x-ray metals, particularly weld joints, which they easily penetrate..
The main danger from radioactivity is the damage it does to the cells in your body.
Most of this damage is due to ionisation when the radiation passes, although if levels of radiation are high there can be damage due to heating effects as your body absorbs the energy from the radiation, rather like heating food in a microwave oven.
Radioactive materials are so dangerous because they emit radiation. Radiation is caused due to the collision of photons, electrons and helium nuclei. Upon collision, radiation can occur which can be detrimental to the health.
Add your answer:
Earn +20 pts
At what ppm is what elements of hard water potentially hazardous?
Elements of hard water are potentially hazardous at about 0.3 to 1.5 PPM.
What type of hazardous substances are created in the production phase of hydro?
During the production phase of hydroelectric power, hazardous substances such as sediments, dissolved oxygen, and methane may be released into the environment, potentially impacting water quality and aquatic life. Additionally, there is a risk of accidental spills of lubricants, coolants, or chemicals used in equipment maintenance.
Is einsteinium poisonous or hazardous?
Einsteinium is extremely radioactive and dangerous.
What type of hazardous waste gives off radiation?
Radioactive hazardous waste gives off radiation. This includes materials such as spent nuclear fuel, radioactive medical waste, and contaminated laboratory equipment. Proper handling and disposal of radioactive waste is crucial to protect human health and the environment.
Who made the biohazard?
The biohazard symbol was designed by Charles Baldwin in 1966 as a universal warning sign for potentially hazardous biological material. It is used to alert individuals to the presence of substances that pose a threat to health or the environment.
What has the author David Robert Smith written?
David Robert Smith has written: 'Analysis of the radiological risks of transporting spent fuel and radioactive wastes by truck and by ordinary and special trains' -- subject(s): Transportation, Radioactive substances, Hazardous substances, Radioactive wastes
What types of hazardous substances are used or created in the production of solar power and nuclear power?
In the production of solar power, hazardous substances like lead and cadmium are present in some types of solar panels. In nuclear power production, radioactive materials such as uranium and plutonium are used, which can be hazardous if not properly managed.
Is einsteinium explosive radioactive or noxious?
Einsteinium is a radioactive element that is not inherently explosive or noxious in its pure form. However, its radioactivity makes it potentially hazardous to health and the environment if not handled properly and with appropriate safety measures.
Is considered a potentially hazardous food?
Bread is not potentially hazardous because of it's low moisture content/
What are the Characteristics Of potentially hazardous food?
identify the major types of potentially hazardous foods and the characteristics that are common
What is coshh about?
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health.
What does the markings rq identify?
"Reportable Quantity" for Hazardous Substances
At what ppm is what elements of hard water potentially hazardous?
Elements of hard water are potentially hazardous at about 0.3 to 1.5 PPM.
Is jalapeno cheese bread a potentially hazardous food?
Bread is not potentially hazardous because of it's low moisture content/
What is radioactive substances?
Radioactive substances are the things that put off radiation. These could be radioactive waste, or even radioactive materials not yet used.
Who is the authorizing official to approve hazardous or potentially hazardous material?
HMMP
What does COSHH provide information on?
COSHH is Control of Substances Hazardous to Health. It is a law that requires employers to control substances that are hazardous to health. There are several methods to reduce workers exposure to hazardous substances.
