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A Beta particle is essentially an electron (or positron) traveling at substantial speed. When a beta particle strikes a living cell, it interacts with the molecules making up the cell and creates one or more ion pairs by causing outer electrons to leave the molecule and making the molecule positively charged, while the released electron is negatively charged. Ionized molecules take part in different chemical reactions than do similar molecules that are electrically neutral. As a result of the ionization, exotic chemical reactions take place in the effected cell. These reactions may interfere with cell metabolism or with cell DNA (affecting or preventing cell division). Cells have a limited ability to repair the damage caused by this process, but if enough damage is inflicted fast enough, the cell may be damaged or killed. If enough cells are damaged or killed in one organ, the organ may be damaged.

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Why is beta radiation dangerous?

Beta radiation can be harmful to living organisms as it can penetrate the skin and cause damage to tissues and cells. When beta particles are absorbed by the body, they can disrupt cellular processes and DNA, potentially leading to radiation sickness, burns, and an increased risk of cancer. It is important to limit exposure to beta radiation and use appropriate shielding to protect against its harmful effects.


Beta particles will?

They have a RAVE, BABY!


Why is beta radiation most dangerous?

Beta radiation is considered dangerous because it can penetrate the skin and damage cells and tissues. This type of radiation has a moderate level of energy, allowing it to travel further into the body compared to alpha radiation. If internalized, beta particles can cause harm by disrupting cell function and potentially leading to long-term health effects.


What are 3 kinds of radiation given off by radioactive substances?

The three types of radiation given off by radioactive substances are alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays. Alpha particles are the least penetrating, beta particles are more penetrating than alpha particles, and gamma rays are the most penetrating and dangerous type of radiation.


Will i die from beta particles?

External irradiation is not so important; inhalation or ingestion of beta rays emitters can be dangerous.


What correctly describes the charge of beta particles and alpha particles?

Beta particles have a negative charge, while alpha particles have a positive charge. Beta particles are electrons or positrons, while alpha particles are helium nuclei consisting of two protons and two neutrons.


Can paper shield beta particles?

Beta particles are not stopped by a paper sheet.


How far does beta radiation penetrate human tissue?

Beta radiation can penetrate human tissues to a depth of a few millimeters to a few centimeters, depending on the energy of the beta particles. Higher energy beta particles can penetrate deeper into tissues, potentially causing damage to cells and DNA along their path.


What is the ionizing power of alpha particle?

Alpha particles have high ionizing power due to their large mass and double positive charge. They interact strongly with atoms, causing significant ionization as they pass through a material, making them dangerous to living organisms if exposed internally.


What is a soft beta particle?

Low energy beta particles, say, from tritium, are called soft beta particles.


Three froms of radioactivity are?

Alpha, Beta and Gamma. Alpha and beta are both particles, but gamma is in the form of a wave. Gamma can travel the fathest but Alpha is the most dangerous when in contact with your skin


What is the charge of beta particles?

Beta Particles have a negative charge,In Beta decay a neutron changes into a proton and a beta particle, an electron.