Why is alpha radiation dangerous inside the body?

3 years ago

1 Reply

4051 views

Heath Miller

Get A Free Cheatsheet For Measuring and Detecting Radioactivity 🔥

Use our concise notes and diagrams to only revise what you need to know.

By submitting your email, you agree to join our mailing list. You can unsubscribe at any time.

1 Answer

James H Verified Sherpa Tutor ✓

Enthusiastic physics and maths tutor with 31 years experience

94 reviews

It is highly ionizing so can cause cancer by ionizing DNA. It is safe outside the body as skin/layer of grease on skin/clothing will absorb alpha particles, so an alpha source is only dangerous if it gets inside the body.

Found this useful? Give kudos!

I'm available for 1:1 private online tuition!

Click here to view my profile and arrange a free introduction.

Think you can help?

Need a GCSE Physics tutor?

Get started with a free online introductions with an experienced and qualified online tutor on Sherpa.

Find a GCSE Physics Tutor