haya.Learning made clear
Hazards of nuclear radiation and safety measures sheet
3-mark answer frame

Describe the hazards of nuclear radiation and the safety measures needed.

How to lay out the answer. Follow the frame, then write it in your own words.

  1. 1 · Explain how harm happens. Radiation ionises and breaks complex molecules in living cells.
  2. 2 · List the effects. Cancer, sterility, skin burns, lowered resistance, and genetic damage seen in later generations.
  3. 3 · Name the sources. Natural: rocks and cosmic rays. Man-made: nuclear tests, reactors and medical isotopes.
  4. 4 · Give safety measures.
    • Avoid nuclear tests
    • Store radioactive waste safely
    • Use radiation in medicine only when needed
    • Short time, large distance, lead or concrete shields
  5. 5 · Real life. Lead aprons and radiation badges in hospital X-ray rooms.
  6. 6 · Close in one line. So, we cannot stop natural radiation, but we can limit man-made exposure.

Scoring tip: Split your answer into two clear parts, effects and safety; examiners mark each part separately.