MCQ Detailed View

Radiation is considered harmful because it can damage living cells and tissues, leading to health problems. One of the main effects is the development of skin cancer. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight, as well as X-rays and gamma rays, can penetrate skin cells and cause mutations in DNA, which can trigger uncontrolled cell growth.

Radiation interacts with biological molecules by transferring energy, which can break chemical bonds in DNA, proteins, and other cellular structures. This can result in mutations, impaired cell function, or even cell death. Skin cancer is a visible consequence of these molecular changes.

The risk depends on the type of radiation, intensity, and duration of exposure. For example, prolonged exposure to UV radiation increases the chance of skin cancer, while ionizing radiation such as X-rays and gamma rays can damage deeper tissues if safety precautions are not followed.

Radiation can also cause other health effects, including burns, premature aging of skin, and long-term risks such as cancer in internal organs. Protective measures like sunscreen, lead shields, and proper equipment in medical or industrial settings help reduce exposure.

Understanding how radiation causes skin cancer is part of physical chemistry and nuclear chemistry studies, as it links the energy of radiation to its biological effects. Handling radiation safely is crucial to prevent harmful outcomes while using its beneficial applications in medicine, industry, and research.

This explanation highlights the primary reason radiation is harmful: its ability to cause skin cancer through molecular and cellular damage.