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Electromagnetic Radiation Hazards

The document outlines various types of electromagnetic (EM) radiation, their common uses, and associated risks and hazards. While radio waves are generally safe, other types like microwaves, UV rays, X-rays, and gamma rays pose significant health risks including tissue heating, skin damage, and increased cancer risk. The summary emphasizes the importance of understanding exposure levels to mitigate health hazards.

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jennifer siarot
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3 views1 page

Electromagnetic Radiation Hazards

The document outlines various types of electromagnetic (EM) radiation, their common uses, and associated risks and hazards. While radio waves are generally safe, other types like microwaves, UV rays, X-rays, and gamma rays pose significant health risks including tissue heating, skin damage, and increased cancer risk. The summary emphasizes the importance of understanding exposure levels to mitigate health hazards.

Uploaded by

jennifer siarot
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Risks and Hazards of Electromagnetic Radiation

Type of EM Radiation Examples/Uses Risks & Hazards


Radio Waves Broadcasting, Wi-Fi, Radios Generally safe; very high exposure may cause tissue heating.
Microwaves Microwave ovens, Radar, Mobile phones Can heat tissues; prolonged exposure may damage eyes (cataracts).
Infrared (IR) Remote controls, Heat lamps, Thermal cameras Excessive exposure may cause skin burns or eye damage.
Visible Light Human vision, Lasers, Lamps Bright light (sun, lasers) can cause retinal damage.
Ultraviolet (UV) Sunlight, Tanning beds, Sterilization Causes sunburn, skin aging, DNA damage → skin cancer; eye damage.
X-Rays Medical imaging, Airport security High/repeated exposure increases cancer risk; harmful to fetus.
Gamma Rays Nuclear reactions, Cancer treatment Highly penetrating; destroys cells; causes mutations, cancer, radiation sickness.

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