GCSE Physics (AQA)

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Irradiation

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Atomic structure Atoms and nuclear radiation

Irradiation

2:12 Contamination and Irradiation
Spec 4.4.2.4
Previous Contamination Next Protection from Irradiation
  • Irradiation is the process of exposing an object to radiation.
  • Nuclei decay to become more stable, releasing radiation as particles or electromagnetic waves.
  • Exposure to radiation causes ionization within atoms, known as irradiation.
  • Irradiated objects do not become contaminated.
  • Contamination is the presence of unwanted radioactive atoms in a sample.
  • Contamination leads to irradiation as contaminants emit radiation to nearby objects.
  • Irradiation does not lead to contamination since no radioactive atoms enter the object.
  • Misunderstanding the difference between contamination and irradiation is a common exam error.
  • High doses of irradiation can damage or kill cells.
  • Alpha particles can destroy cells like bullets.
  • Medium doses allow cells to repair; high doses kill cells.
  • Low doses do not kill cells but increase cancer risk.
  • Low-intensity gamma radiation can ionize cell nuclei, altering DNA and increasing cancer risk.
  • For exams, understand potential radiation effects on cells, but not the detailed mechanisms.

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