General Instructions

In this activity, you will read a short expository essay and describe the biological impact of ionizing radiation, explain the operation of common tools for detecting radioactivity, and list common sources of radiation exposure in their countries. To successfully achieve this, you will need to review all the study materials for Module Eight (Nuclear Chemistry).

Step 1: Select and Reflect

Read the topic below and demonstrate your understanding of intermolecular forces in theoretical and practical settings.

• Biological effects of radiation

Step 2: Respond

Using supporting data to back your arguments, prepare a 500-600 word written piece that answers any one of the following questions based on the scenario you selected. 

Case Scenario: 

The town of Riverside is located near a nuclear power plant that has been in operation for over 30 years. Over the last few years, residents have become increasingly concerned about the biological effects of ionizing radiation from the plant. In response, the local government has commissioned a study to investigate the potential health impacts of living in close proximity to the plant. 

The study began by measuring the levels of ionizing radiation in the environment. To do this, the team employed a variety of tools, such as Geiger counters and dosimeters. The Geiger counters measure the amount of radiation present, while dosimeters measure the amount of radiation absorbed by a person or object. These readings revealed that the levels of radiation in the area were above the safe levels recommended by the World Health Organization. 

The team then conducted a survey of the health of the local population. Participants were asked questions about their health, including any symptoms they may have experienced which could be associated with radiation exposure. The results of the survey suggested that there was an increased risk of certain types of cancer and other health conditions for those living in close proximity to the nuclear power plant. 

Questions: 

1. What are some of the potential health risks associated with exposure to ionizing radiation? 
2. What methods are typically used to measure levels of ionizing radiation in the environment? 
3. How can the results of a survey be used to assess the potential health impacts of living near a nuclear power plant?
4. List the common sources of radiation exposure in your country of residence

Step 3: Share 

To share your work, click on the “Add a new discussion topic” button under this post and paste your work into the “Message” box. Make sure to reference others’ intellectual property when necessary. All references should follow 7th Edition APA formatting. For further instructions, see the resource on the Himmelfarb Health Sciences Library: APA citation resource (N.B.: references are excluded from word counts).

Step 4: Interact 

To complete the activity, evaluate and categorize the work from one of your peers based on items A - E of the rubric below. Provide a rationale for the grade you have provided, as well as comments or suggestions for improvement. To post a reply, click “Reply” on a particular discussion, write your feedback and then click on “Post to forum.” 

You can use the list below as an example: