Explain the sources, effects and mitigation measures for radioactive or nuclear pollution
Answers
Answer:
Effects -
Studies have shown that the health effects due to radiation are dependent on the level of dose, kind of radiation, duration of exposure and types of cells irradiated. Radiation effects can be somatic or genetic.
Nuclear Pollution
1. Somatic effects:
Somatic effects the function of cells and organs. It causes damages to cell membranes, mitochondria and cell nuclei resulting in abnormal cell functions, cell division, growth and death.
2. Genetic effects:
Genetic effects the future generations. Radiations can cause mutations, which are changes in genetic makeup of cells. These effects are mainly due to the damages to DNA molecules. People suffer from blood cancer and bone cancer if exposed to doses around 100 to 1000 roentgens. Instantaneous deaths on exposure in the event if disasters are many.
Management of Radioactive Waste:
a. The radioactive waste which comes out from industry, nuclear reactors should be stored and allowed to decay either naturally in closed drums or in very large underground air tight cemented tanks (Delay and Decay).
b. The intermediate radioactive waste should be disposed off into the environment after diluting it with some inert materials (Dilute and Disperse)
c. Now-a-days small quantities of high activity wastes are converted into solids such as concrete and then it is buried underground or sea. (Concentrate and contain)
Control Measures:
a. Laboratory generated nuclear wastes should be disposed off safely and scientifically.
b. Nuclear power plants should be located in areas after careful study of the geology of the area, tectonic activity and meeting other established conditions.
c. Appropriate protection against occupational exposure.
d. Leakage of radioactive elements from nuclear reactors, careless use of radioactive elements as fuel and careless handling of radioactive isotopes must be prevented.
e. Safety measure against accidental release of radioactive elements must be ensured in nuclear plants.
f. Unless absolutely necessary, one should not frequently go for diagnosis by x-rays.
g. Regular monitoring of the presence of radioactive substance in high risk area should be ensured.
Among the many options for waste disposal, the scientists prefer to bury the waste in hundreds of meters deep in the earth’s crust is considered to be the best safety long term option.
Explanation:
Sources of nuclear pollution is shown in figure
Radioactivity is the spontaneous emission of radiation in the form of particles or high energy photons resulting from a nuclear reaction