Question 1: Define irradiation and contamination in the context of radioactivity.

Answer: Irradiation is exposure to radiation without becoming radioactive itself, while contamination involves radioactive materials being deposited on or inside an object or person.

Question 2: Explain how contamination can pose a health risk compared to irradiation.

Answer: Contamination can lead to internal exposure if radioactive particles enter the body, causing ongoing radiation emission inside, whereas irradiation is usually external exposure.

Question 1: A person is exposed to a radiation source emitting 50 microsieverts per hour. How much dose will they receive after 8 hours?

Answer: 400 microsieverts

Question 2: If a radioactive particle deposits a energy of 2 Joules in 1 kilogram of tissue, what is the absorbed dose in Gray (Gy)? (Note: 1 Gy = 1 Joule/kg)

Answer: 2 Gy

Question 1: List three safety precautions to follow when handling radioactive materials to prevent contamination.

Answer: Use protective clothing and gloves, work in designated areas with shielding, and avoid direct contact with radioactive sources.

Question 2: Describe a simple experiment to demonstrate the difference between irradiation and contamination.

Answer: One possible experiment involves exposing a piece of paper to a radioactive source (irradiation) without contact, versus placing radioactive powder on the paper (contamination). Observations include noting that irradiation does not leave radioactive material on the paper, while contamination leaves residual radioactivity that can be detected with a Geiger counter.

Question 1: A worker in a nuclear plant is exposed to external radiation for 3 hours, receiving a dose of 150 microsieverts. Later, it is discovered that radioactive dust contaminated their clothing, requiring decontamination. Explain how the initial exposure and contamination differ in terms of health risk and safety measures.

Answer: External exposure from irradiation poses an immediate health risk through external radiation, which can be minimized with shielding and limited exposure time. Contamination involves radioactive particles adhering to clothing or skin, posing ongoing internal risk if not properly removed. Safety measures include wearing protective gear, prompt decontamination, and monitoring for residual radioactivity.

Question 1: Describe how hospitals use controlled irradiation to sterilize surgical equipment without causing contamination.

Answer: Hospitals use gamma radiation to sterilize equipment, which kills bacteria and viruses. The equipment is irradiated in sealed containers, preventing contamination while ensuring no residual radioactivity remains.

Question 2: Explain why proper disposal of radioactive waste is important to prevent contamination of the environment.

Answer: Radioactive waste can emit harmful radiation if not properly disposed of, leading to environmental contamination and health risks. Safe disposal methods prevent radioactive materials from entering water, soil, and living organisms.