AWR 160- Module 5 Exam Questions And Answers Graded A+

AWR 160- Module 5 Exam Questions And Answers Graded A+ Radiation the invisible energy emitted by certain types of unstable (or radioactive) atoms. This energy travels through the air but cannot be seen, felt, smelled, or tasted. Some radiation can penetrate packaging materials, vehicles, and building walls. Radioactive material may be a solid, liquid, or gas. Many of the types of radioactive material released by terrorists may be in the form of dust or powder. Even when this radioactive material is properly contained, it emits radiation and may be a hazard. The release of radioactive material from its container can result in contamination. Radioactive materials emitting small amounts of radiation are a slight threat to responders and the public. Other types of radioactive materials emit large and dangerous amounts of radiation. Radioactive contamination refers to radioactive material in a place where its presence may be harmful. Some types of contamination may be readily spread from one surface to another (i.e., radioactive dust), and this is the primary threat posed by a Radiological Dispersal Device (RDD). radiation travels in all directions, including upwind. It can travel distances ranging from 0.25 in. (0.64 cm) to hundreds of feet (meters), depending on the specific type of radioactive material. The farther the radiation travels, the weaker and less hazardous it becomes. Guide 163 of the Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG) recommends isolating a spill, leak, or damaged container of radiological material at least 75 ft. (25 m) in all directions. Atom An atom is the smallest particle of an element that can exist either alone or in combination with another element. Atoms are either stable or unstable. Stable atoms do not spontaneously release energy, but unstable atoms release excess energy in the form of rays and particles. Ionizing radiation The energy and subatomic particles emitted due to the disintegration of the nucleus of an atom results in ionizing radiation. Known as radioactive decay, ionizing radiation has enough energy to knock electrons from atoms as they collide or pass nearby. Small amounts of ionizing radiation are tolerable, but large amounts can be harmful or deadly to living cells. Anything that emits ionizing radiation in the form of alpha particles (α), beta particles (β), gamma rays (γ), or neutrons is considered radioactive. Alpha radiation Alpha radiation is particulate material that quickly loses its energy as it travels through the air. It has limited penetrating power and can be stopped by clothing or a sheet of paper; therefore, alpha emitters present primarily an ingestion or inhalation hazard. If ingested or inhaled, they can be absorbed and retained and cause damage in organs (e.g., kidneys, liver, lungs, and bone). Beta radiation Beta radiation is particulate material that loses energy more