If absorbed internally,alpha particle emitters are the most damaging because alpha particles ________.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Alpha particles consist of two protons and two neutrons, giving them a mass of 4 atomic mass units (AMUs). This large mass means they can penetrate only a few centimeters in air and can be stopped by a sheet of paper or the outer layer of skin. However, if alpha emitters are ingested or inhaled, they can do significant harm as they deliver their energy directly to living tissue. The large mass means they deposit all of their energy within a few micrometers of their travel, causing significant damage to DNA and other important cellular structures.

If Absorbed Internally,alpha Particle Emitters Are the Most Damaging Because