17
QuizMultiple Choice

Nuclear Processes — Test

Question 17 • Physics in the Universe

What hazard is associated with ionizing radiation?

Answer
A
It causes radiation sickness as a result of any exposure.
B
It destroys atoms in molecules, which can cause genetic mutations.
C
It undergoes radioactive decay, which can damage DNA in cells.
D
It creates charged particles that can take part in chemical reactions in cells.

Explanation

Ionizing radiation has enough energy to knock electrons off atoms, creating charged particles called ions. These ions can trigger chemical reactions in cells and damage important molecules such as DNA; it does not cause radiation sickness from every exposure, as choice B claims.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

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