Which statement explains why radioactive materials that emit alpha particles are particularly hazardous if they are inhaled or ingested?
Alpha particles are highly penetrating and can easily pass through the outer layers of skin.
Alpha particles are highly ionising and cause significant damage to nearby cells and DNA.
Alpha particles are electromagnetic waves that carry high thermal energy.
Alpha particles have a very long range in air, allowing them to affect organs from a distance.
484 exam-style questions on CIE IGCSE Physics 5.2 Radioactivity, covering 5.2.1 Background radiation and measuring count rate, 5.2.2a Alpha, beta and gamma emission, 5.2.2b Deflection and ionising effects of nuclear radiation, 5.2.3a Radioactive decay, 5.2.3b Effects of decay on the nucleus and decay equations, 5.2.4a Half-life, 5.2.4b Choosing isotopes for applications, and 5.2.5 Effects of ionising radiation and safety precautions. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.