4.2.16

Ionising Radiation

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Ions and Ionising Radiation

Alpha, beta and gamma radiation are all ionising radiation. Ionising radiation can break molecules into small particles called ions.

Illustrative background for Ions are charged particlesIllustrative background for Ions are charged particles ?? "content

Ions are charged particles

  • Ions are particles that become charged by gaining or losing electrons.
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Ions can cause cell damage

  • Ions can react in unusual ways.
  • This can damage cells and complex chemical structures, such as DNA.
  • The cell damage from ionising radiation can cause mutations. These mutations can lead to cancer.

Jump to other topics

1Energy

2Electricity

3Particle Model of Matter

4Atoms & Radiation

5Forces

5.1Basics of Motion

5.2Forces

5.3Effects of Forces

5.4Pressure

6Waves

7Magnetism

8Astrophysics

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