Question Constellation Sign up for free AQA · GCSE · Physics · Higher
Gamma-Ray Ionisation and Harm
Explain why exposure to gamma rays can be harmful but exposure to radio waves is not harmful.
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Study the marking See what earns credit and compare it with a full-mark answer.
Marking points
- 1 Contrasts gamma rays as ionising with radio waves as non-ionising.
- 2 Links ionisation to DNA / gene mutation, cell damage or increased cancer risk.
Full-mark answer
Gamma rays are ionising, whereas radio waves are not. Gamma radiation can damage cells or DNA, causing mutations and increasing the risk of cancer.
Why this answer loses marks
Gamma rays are stronger than radio waves.
“Stronger” is not the marking idea; contrast ionising with non-ionising radiation and link ionisation to cell or DNA damage.