Chernobyl's Radioactive Wild Boar Paradox

Scientists have been studying the effects of radiation on ecosystems, particularly focusing on the wild boar paradox near Chernobyl. Despite decreasing contamination levels, wild boars remain radioactive due to cesium from past nuclear tests and Chernobyl. The study reveals that mushrooms, which boars consume, absorb deep-seated radiation, explaining the anomaly. This research aids in understanding radiation's long-term ecological impact.

What is the wild boar paradox?

• Wild boars have become extinct around Chernobyl.

• Wild boars have unusually high levels of radioactive isotopes.

• Wild boars have migrated away from Chernobyl.

• Wild boars have developed immunity to radiation.

What was the immediate impact of the Chernobyl disaster?

• It resulted in the immediate evacuation of the entire continent.

• It released a significant amount of radioactive material into the environment.

• It led to the extinction of several species.

• It caused a global nuclear war.

What is the half-life of cesium 137?

• 8 days

• 29 years

• 30 years

• 70 days

How does radiation move through ecosystems?

• It remains static in one location.

• It is absorbed by plants and animals, moving through the food chain.

• It evaporates into the atmosphere.

• It is only found in water sources.

What is the biological half-life of cesium 137 in animals?

• 8 days

• 29 years

• 70 days

• 30 years

What historical events contributed to the wild boar paradox?

• A meteor impact in the 1990s.

• A volcanic eruption in the 1980s.

• Nuclear weapons tests in the 1950s and 60s.

• The Chernobyl disaster alone.

Why do mushrooms play a role in the wild boar paradox?

• They repel wild boars.

• They absorb radiation from deep groundwater.

• They are immune to radiation.

• They are a new species discovered in Chernobyl.