Radioactive contamination

What is radioactive contamination?

• Presence of radioactive atoms in the air
• Unwanted presence of materials containing radioactive atoms on other materials
• Natural radiation from the sun
• Harmless background radiation

What is the hazard from contamination?

• Radiation from the air
• Decay of contaminating atoms
• Exposure to sunlight
• Use of X-ray machines

What affects the level of hazard in contamination?

• Amount of material
• Type of radiation emitted
• Color of the material
• Temperature

What is irradiation?

• Contamination of objects with radioactive material
• Exposing an object to nuclear radiation
• Natural radiation from the earth
• Emission of light from a source

Does an irradiated object become radioactive?

• Yes
• No
• Sometimes
• Only if exposed for a long time

Why is contamination more dangerous than irradiation?

• It causes objects to glow
• The radioactive material stays on the object and can continue to emit radiation
• It is always stronger radiation
• It is more visible

What tool should you use to handle radioactive sources in a school lab?

• Tweezers
• Hands
• Tongs
• A brush

What can be used in a school lab to reduce exposure to radiation?

• Water
• Protective screens or barriers
• Mirrors
• Fans

Why should findings on radiation effects on humans be published and shared with other scientists?

• To hide information
• To allow peer review and ensure accuracy
• To make money
• To keep it a secret