Question

Name any two nuclear radiations and describe their harmful effects on the human body.

Answer 1

The most common nuclear radiations are Alpha particles ($\alpha$), Beta particles ($\beta$), Gamma rays ($\gamma$), X-rays and high-energy neutrons. Out of these nuclear radiations, Alpha particles are the least penetrating. X-rays and Gamma-rays are highly penetrating and are very harmful to human beings.

The harmful effects of nuclear radiation on the human body are of two types:

Somatic effects: Damage to the body cells generates somatic consequences, which can lead to diseases like cancer.

Genetic effects: The genetic effects involve damage to the genes of the affected person. These effects are very serious and may be passed on to the next generation.