Question 1
Question detail
Explain how ionising radiation can increase the risk of cancer or mutations in living cells.
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
Atoms and nuclear radiation
Question
Explain how ionising radiation can increase the risk of cancer or mutations in living cells.
Answer
Ionising radiation can damage the DNA within cells, leading to mutations. If these mutations affect genes that control cell growth and division, it can result in uncontrolled cell proliferation, which is a characteristic of cancer.
Explanation
This question tests the understanding of the biological effects of ionising radiation on cellular structures. It requires students to connect the concept of radiation to its potential health impacts, specifically cancer and mutations.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Ionising Radiation Effects
Students often confuse the effects of ionising radiation, thinking that all types of radiation have the same risk of causing cancer or mutations.
To fix this, students should study the specific properties and hazards of different types of radiation (alpha, beta, gamma) and understand how their penetration and ionising power affect their potential to cause biological damage.
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