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RADIATION AND YOU
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The Effect of Radiation on Living Cells |
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When alpha particles, beta particles or gamma rays penetrate living human cells molecules in the cells are ionised. This ionisation can damage or even destroy the molecules and hence the cells. |
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The picture below shows a small amount of radiation entering a living cell. |
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The low dose of radiation results in minor damage but not the death of the cell. The cell may divide; however, leading to cancer cells being formed. |
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The picture below shows a growth that has formed due to multiplying cancer cells. This person worked with X-ray machines - sources of high dose radiation. |
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The picture below shows a large amount of radiation entering a living cell. |
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The high dose of radiation kills the cell so no cancer cells can form. |
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The picture below shows high dose radiation being used to kill cancer cells. Radiation can also be used to kill harmful micro-organisms e.g. sterilisation. |
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Radiation Outside the Body |
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Beta particles and gamma rays are the most dangerous outside the human body. They can both penetrate the skin and damage the cells in organs such as the liver or lungs. Alpha particles are not as dangerous. They cannot penetrate the skin and cause damage. |
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Radiation Inside the Body |
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Radiation from alpha particle sources is the most dangerous inside the human body. Alpha particles can ionise the molecules in many cells and cause a lot of damage. Beta particles and gamma rays are not as dangerous. They tend to pass through the body without ionising molecules and damaging living cells. |
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