Question

Describe the effects of radioactive pollution on biological systems.

Answer 1

1. Somatic effects: Somatic effects damage the body cells and tissues of the exposed individual during their lifetime. Short-term symptoms include nausea, hair loss, skin ulcers, and anemia. Long-term exposure can lead to serious conditions like eye cataracts, sterility, and damage to internal organs such as the liver and thyroid. There is also a high risk of developing cancers, particularly leukemia (blood cancer) and bone cancer.
2. Genetic effects: These effects occur when ionizing radiation causes mutations and chromosomal aberrations in reproductive cells. Since DNA is damaged, these effects are passed on to future generations, leading to abnormal births and hereditary diseases.