Question

Why are radioactive isotopes harmful?

Answer 1

1. As radioactive material decays or breaks down, the energy released into the environment has two ways of harming a body that is exposed to it.
2. It can directly kill cells, or it can cause mutations in DNA.
3. If those mutations are not repaired, the cell may turn cancerous.
4. The risk associated with radioactive materials depends on the amount of exposure.
5. Being exposed to highly radioactive materials or being exposed to radioactive materials for long periods of time or on a regular basis increases the dose received which, in turn, increases the risk.