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Alpha particles are low energy, and are pretty much stopped by your skin. However, if it is inside your body, it can do damage. With all radiation, the inverse square rule applies- 2x as far away, 1/4th the dose. 3x as far, 1/9th of the dose. 4x as far, 1/16th of the dose. But when a source is inside your body, you get ALL the radiation emitted. Old saying in working with radioactive material- time and distance are your friends.

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Why is alpha radiation more dangerous than beta rediation when the source of the radiation is inside the body?

Alpha radiation cannot get pass through our body as it cannot penetrate through things. Beta can penetrate through things better than alpha. So if alpha is inside our body then it cannot get outside our body and therefore it becomes dangerous.


What are the negative effects of alpha radiation?

Alpha radiation can be harmful if ingested or inhaled, as it can damage cells and DNA, leading to an increased risk of cancer. However, alpha particles can be stopped by a sheet of paper or human skin, so they are not as dangerous as other types of radiation unless the source is inside the body.


Why is the source of a-particles kept inside the lead block?

The source of alpha (α) particles is kept inside a lead block to shield against radiation exposure. Lead effectively absorbs and attenuates alpha particles, which have limited penetration power, ensuring that only the desired radiation reaches the target area while protecting nearby individuals from potential harm. Additionally, keeping the source contained minimizes the risk of accidental release or contamination.


How fast does alpha radiation move?

alpha radiations travel with different speed depending upon the source they are emitted from


Why is alpha radiation so deadly to humans?

It is only deadly if ingested. The skin will stop alpha radiation. It does not have much penetrating power. When inside the body it can cause cellular damage which can lead to cancer.


Alpha is it ionizing?

Yes, alpha radiation is an ionizing radiation.


What is the radiation type for alpha?

Alpha (and beta) radiation is "particle radiation" Gamma is electro-magnetic radiation.


Why is alpha radiation more harmful inside the body than outside it?

Alpha radiation is more harmful inside the body because alpha particles have a high ionizing power and are more likely to interact with cells and tissues, causing damage to DNA. When emitted outside the body, alpha particles can be stopped by skin or clothing and are less likely to penetrate deeply into tissues where they can cause harm.


Which form of nuclear radiation is least damaging to humans?

Alpha, from outside the body, because alpha is stopped by the skin, a sheet of paper, or a few inches of air. From inside the body, however, alpha is one of the most dangerous forms of radiation.


Is alpha decay the same as alpha radiation?

No. Decay is the process, radiation is the product.


Why materials that emit alpha radiation are more dangerous inside the body than outside?

Because in the body alpha particles interact directly with the organism cells.


Is there more severe radiation than gamma?

It depends on the strength of the active source. Alpha radiation is dangerous if it gets inside your body, gamma will penetrate your clothing and body if energetic enough, so it's difficult to give an answer that covers all cases. Health physicists have to consider each type of radiation on its merits.