Quarter 2- Module 3

The Effects of EM Radiations on Living

Things and Environment

Lesson 1 Risks of Non-Ionizing Radiation

In this lesson, you will be introduced to the possible effects of non-ionizing radiations to living things and
environment. You are also expected to find solutions on how to reduce this type of radiations hazards.
What’s New
Activity1.1: Non-Ionizing Radiations Directions:
1. Look at the electromagnetic spectrum in the figure below
2. Identify the examples of non-ionizing radiations and write your answer in the box.

Figure 1. Electromagnetic Spectrum

https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/radiation/nonionizing_radiation.htm
https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/radiation/nonionizing_r adiation.html

Guide Questions:

1. What is non-ionizing radiation?

2. What do you think are the possible effects of non-ionizing radiation to living things and
environment?
What Is It
Non-Ionizing Radiation and Its Risks
Radiation exists all around us, from both natural and manmade sources, and is in two forms: ionizing
and non-ionizing radiation. Let us study first the non-ionizing radiations and cite some possible risks to livings
things and environment.
Non-Ionizing radiation is a type of low-energy radiation that does not have enough energy to remove an electron
(negative particle) from an atom or molecule. Most types of non-ionizing radiation have not been found to cause
cancer. This radiation exists all around us from many sources. Non- ionizing radiation includes visible, infrared,
and ultraviolet light; microwaves; radio waves; and radiofrequency energy from cell phones.

https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/radiation/nonionizing_radiation.htm

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Examples of Non Ionizing Radiation
1. Radio Waves
AM and FM radio broadcasts, Wi-Fi signals, cell phones, amateur radio, television and airport
security scanners use radio frequency (RF) waves. This type of non-ionizing radiation is absorbed throughout
the body. The effects of RF waves on the body are similar to MW radiation in terms of heat generation.
Exposure to electromagnetic fields in this frequency range can warm up exposed tissues because these absorb
the radio wave and convert these into heat.

The frequency level determines the depth of penetration into the body. For example, using a cell
phone causes the ear and/or head to get warm. Warming up by this radiation is the most dangerous for the
brain, eyes, genitals, stomach, liver and kidneys. There is no scientific proof that RF non- ionizing radiation
increases the risk of cancer or causes any harmful effects on the body.

Extremely Low Frequencies

Extremely low frequency (ELF) waves are on the far end of the electromagnetic spectrum and
co7me from power lines, electrical equipment and wiring, and electrical appliances such as electric
blankets, refrigerators, razors and hair dryers. ELF waves can go through water so they are also used for
detection by submarines. According to the National Cancer Institute, there is no experimental evidence
showing that normal levels of ELF radiation are dangerous to humans.

2. Microwaves

Microwave radiation (MW) comes from microwave ovens, radar, transmission towers, satellite
transmissions, the sun and Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) radiation. CMB is radiation left over
from the Big Bang when the universe began. Atoms and molecules can also emit and absorb MW radiation.
Overexposure to MW radiation can cause cataracts and skin burns.

3. Infrared

Everything on Earth gives off some amount of infrared (IR) radiation. The human eye can’t see
most of the IR spectrum, but we can feel it as heat. About half of the total energy the sun gives off is in the
form of IR radiation, which we feel as heat. In large amounts, this type of radiation can damage the eyes and
even cause blindness.

IR radiation from the sun is normally absorbed by the Earth’s surface and the clouds, then released
as heat into the atmosphere. When the atmosphere has a lot of water vapor, along with nitrogen, sulfur and
fluorocarbons, the IR radiation gets trapped and causes the atmospheric temperature to rise. This is called the
greenhouse effect. Temperature increases like this cause changes in the weather patterns on Earth and lead
to climate change.

4. Visible Light

The visible light portion of the electromagnetic spectrum can be seen by humans, animals and other
organisms. This type of light consists of seven colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet.
When all the colors are present at one time, the light is white. Rainbows are created when visible light passes
through raindrops. The raindrops act like a prism and break the light down into its individual colors.
Overexposure to visible light can damage both the eyes and skin.

5. Ultraviolet

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation comes from the sun, welding, black lights and UV lasers. The sun emits
UVA, UVB and UVC rays. The UVC rays are absorbed by the ozone layer and never actually reach the
Earth. Both UVA and UVB light are important for humans in the production of Vitamin D. However, the
effects of overexposure to UV rays can be negative and can be immediate or delayed. Sunburn, skin cancer
and cataracts develop over time with excessive exposure.

6. Lasers

Lasers aren’t a form of non-ionizing radiation, but they are made from it. The word laser is an
acronym for Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Lasers stimulate atoms and
molecules and cause them to produce light and concentrate it into a beam of radiation. Lasers can be made
from visible light, UV and IR waves. Store checkout scanners, CD and DVD players, remote controls, dental
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 drills, laser pointers and laser printers all use lasers. When not used properly, lasers burn and cause severe
damage to tissues, especially in the eye. The narrow beam of light concentrates the effects on the retina,
causing blind spots.

What’s More

Activity 1.2: Identifying Effects and Finding Solutions!

Directions:
1. Refer to the chart below as you can see that non-ionizing radiation comes in the forms of:
ELF (extremely low frequency), Radio Frequencies, Microwave Frequencies, Lasers, Infrared, Visible
Spectrum and Ultraviolet)

1. Write the effects of the different forms of non-ionizing radiations and find some possible solutions to
reduce the risks to living things and environment on the table in the next page.

Table 1: Non-Ionizing Radiations

Non-ionizing Radiations Possible Effects living t Solutions on how to
things environment o reduce the risk
and
1. Extremely Low Frequency

2. Radio wave
3. Microwave
4. Lasers
5. Infrared
6. Visible spectrum
7. Ultraviolet

What I Have Learned

Check your understanding!

1. What is non-ionizing radiation?
2. What are the effects of non-ionizing radiation to living things and environment?
3. Suggests ways on how to reduce the non-ionizing radiation.

What I Can Do

Apply what you have learned!

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 Computer simulation using MRI scans of children is the only possible way to determine the Microwave
radiation (MWR) absorbed in specific tissues in children. But, children are at risks from exposure of microwave
radiation. Why do you think children are in greater danger than adults from the exposure of microwave
radiation? Explain your answer.

Assessment

Directions: Choose the CAPITAL LETTER of the best answer. Write the chosen letter on a separate sheet of
paper.

1. According to the National Cancer Institute, what form of non-ionizing radiations have no experimental
evidence showing that at normal levels of this radiation is dangerous to human.
A. Infrared C. Microwave
B. Extremely low frequency D. Visible light

2. Both UVA and UVB light are important for humans in the production of Vitamin D in the skin and gives
us tanning effects. Overexposure to UV radiation may cause .
A. Asthma C. Heart failure
B. Cancer D. High blood pressure

3. Which of the following in NOT an example of non-ionizing radiation?

A. Microwave C. Visible light
B. Ultraviolet D. X-ray

4. Exposure to normal levels of extremely low frequency (ELF) waves causes

A. Asthma C. Severe burns
B. Brain damage D. No damaging effects

5. Child-like fetus is in great danger than adult from the exposure of microwave radiation.
A. False B. True

Lesson 2 Risks of Ionizing Radiations

In this lesson, you will be introduced to the possible effects of ionizing radiations to living things and
environment. You are also expected to find solutions on how to reduce this type of radiations hazards.
What’s New
Activity 2.1: Ionizing Radiations

Objective: Identify the forms of ionizing radiations.

Materials: Electromagnetic spectrum image.
Directions:
1. Look at the electromagnetic spectrum in the figure below
2. Identify the forms of ionizing radiations and write your answer on a separate sheet of paper.

Figure 1. Electromagnetic Spectrum

Guide Questions:
1. What is the difference between non-ionizing radiation from ionizing radiation?

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 What Is It
Ionizing Radiation and Its Risks

Ionizing radiation is a type of energy released by atoms that travels in the form of electromagnetic waves like
gamma or X-rays and particles like neutrons, beta and alpha.
The spontaneous disintegration of atoms is called radioactivity, and the excess energy emitted is a form of
ionizing radiation
It is well known that high doses of ionizing radiation can cause harm, but there is continuing scientific
uncertainty about the effects at low doses. At levels of dose routinely encountered by members of the public and
most present14 -day radiation workers, there is little or no epidemiological evidence of health effects. Radiation
protection standards recognize that it is not possible to eliminate all radiation exposure, but they do provide for a
system of control to avoid unnecessary exposure and to keep doses in the low dose range.

Types of Ionizing Radiation and Its Risks

1. ALPHA RADIATION

The health effect from exposure to alpha particles depends greatly on how a person is exposed. Alpha
particles lack the energy to penetrate even the outer layer of skin, so exposure to the outside of the body is
not a major concern. Inside the body, however, they can be very harmful. If alpha-emitters are inhaled,
swallowed, or get into the body through a cut, the alpha particles can damage sensitive living tissue. The
way these large, heavy particles because damage makes them more dangerous than other types of radiation.
This results in more severe damage to cells and DNA.

Alpha radiation: The emission of an alpha particle from the nucleus of an atom

2. BETA RADIATION

Beta particles are more penetrating than alpha particles, but are less damaging to living tissue and
DNA because the ionizations they produce are more widely spaced. They travel farther in air than alpha
particles, but can be stopped by a layer of clothing or by a thin layer of a substance such as aluminum. Some
beta particles are capable of penetrating the skin and causing damage such as skin burns. However, as with
alphaemitters, beta- emitters are most hazardous when they are inhaled or swallowed.

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 Beta radiation: The emission of a beta particle from the nucleus of an atom

3. GAMMA RADIATION

Gamma radiation, unlike alpha or beta, does not consist of any particles, instead consisting of a photon
of energy being emitted from an unstable nucleus. Having no mass or charge, gamma radiation can travel
much farther through air than alpha or beta. The extremely high energy of gamma rays allows them to
penetrate just about anything. They can even pass through bones and teeth. This makes gamma rays very
dangerous. They can destroy living cells, produce gene mutations, and cause cancer. Ironically, the deadly
effects of gamma rays can be used to treat cancer. In this type of treatment, a medical device sends out
focused gamma rays that target cancerous cells. The gamma rays kill the cells and destroy the cancer.

Gamma radiation: The emission of an high-energy wave from the nucleus of an atom

4. X-RAYS

X-rays are similar to gamma radiation, with the primary difference being that they originate from the electron
cloud.

X-rays can cause mutations in our DNA and, therefore, might lead to cancer later in life. For this reason, X-rays
are classified as a carcinogen by both the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United States government.

While X-rays are linked to a slightly increased risk of cancer, there is an extremely low risk of short-term side
effects. Exposure to high radiation levels can have a range of effects, such as vomiting, bleeding, fainting, hair
loss, and the loss of skin and hair.

All X-rays are dangerous because they can damage healthy living cells. Of the body. This is the reason
why frequent exposure to X-rays should be avoided. Too much exposure to X-rays can damage body tissues and
can cause cancer.

X-Rays: The emission of a high energy wave from the electron cloud of an atom

5. NEUTRON RADIATION

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 Lastly, Neutron radiation consists of a free neutron, usually emitted as a result of spontaneous or
induced nuclear fission. Able to travel hundreds or even thousands of meters in air, they are however able to be
effectively stopped if blocked by a hydrogen-rich material, such as concrete or water. Neutrons are, in fact, the
only type of radiation that is able to turn other materials radioactive.

In health physics neutron radiation is a type of radiation hazard. Another, sometimes more severe
hazard of neutron radiation, is neutron activation, the ability of neutron radiation to induce radioactivity in most
substances it encounters,

Neutron radiation: The emission of a neutron from the nucleus of atom.

What’s More

Activity 2.2: Recognizing the Effects!

Directions:

1. Referring again to the chart below we can see that Ionizing radiation comes in the forms of: X-rays, gamma
rays, alpha radiation, beta radiations and neutron radiations

2. Write the effects of the different forms of ionizing radiations on the table below.

Ionizing Radiations Possible Effects to Solutions on How

living things and to Reduce the
environment Risks
1. X-rays
2. Gamma rays
3. Alpha radiation
4. Beta Radiations
5. Neutron radiations

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 What I Have Learned

1. What are the forms of ionizing radiations?

2. Explain how Gamma ray can be used to treat cancer.

What I Can Do
Doctors can observe the result of a skier’s unfortunate accident-a broken leg- by taking an X-ray. X-ray
photography help doctors in diagnosing bone fractures. Is it advisable that we have frequent exposure to X-
rays? Explain. Write your answer on a separate sheet of paper.
Assessment
True or False: Write the word True if the statement is correct and False if not.

1. Exposure to ionizing radiation can cause cancer.

2. Too much exposure to X-rays can damage body tissues and can cause cancer.
3. Process in which alpha and beta rays pass close to atoms and knocks electrons out is called ionization.
4. Cells that normally proliferate more rapidly are most sensitive to ionizing radiation.
5. Strongest ionizing radiation is X-ray.

Lesson 3 Solutions to Reduced EM Radiation Hazards

In this lesson, you will be introduced to the possible solutions on how to reduce this EM radiations
hazards.
What’s New
To understand further about the possible ways to reduce EM radiation exposures, try to perform the
next activity for you to acquire some basic information to help you minimize your dose and risk.

Activity 3.1: Electronic Gadgets: Effects and Solutions

Procedure:
1. Look at the image below.
2. Analyze the image and write some possible tips to reduced EM radiations in
using gadgets.

https://kidskare.in/electronic-gadgets-in-children/

3. Write your answers on the table below.

Effects of Gadgets Exposure to Parent’s/Guardian’s Action

Health
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

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 Guide Questions:

1. How safe are electronic gadgets in children?

2. What are the potentially harmful effects of these devices?
3. What can parents do about them?

What’s What Is It
How to Reduce Radiation Exposures?
Radiation is part of our life. Background radiation, coming primarily from natural minerals, is around us
all the time. Fortunately, there are very few situations where an average person is exposed to uncontrolled
sources of radiation above background. Nevertheless, it is wise to be prepared and know what to do if such a
situation arises.
One of the best ways to be prepared is to understand the radiation protection principles of time, distance
and shielding. During a radiological emergency, a large release of radioactive material into the environment. We
can use these principles to help protect ourselves and our families.

Time, distance, and shielding actions minimize your exposure to radiation in much the same way as they
would to protect you against overexposure to the sun:

1. Time: For people who are exposed to radiation in addition to natural background radiation, limiting or
minimizing the exposure time reduces the dose from the radiation source.
2. Distance: Just as the heat from a fire reduces as you move further away, the dose of radiation decreases
dramatically as you increase your distance from the source.
3. Shielding: Barriers of lead, concrete, or water provide protection from penetrating gamma rays and
x-rays. This is why certain radioactive materials are stored under water or in concrete or lead-lined rooms,
and why dentists place a lead blanket on patients receiving x-rays of their teeth. Therefore, inserting the
proper shield between you and a radiation source will greatly reduce or eliminate the dose you receive.

Things to be Aware of:

1. Humans cannot sense ionizing radiation.

2. All radiation isn’t the same.
3. Ionizing Radiation comes in Waves.
4. Gamma Radiation and X Rays Share Similar Characteristics 5. Ionizing Radiation also comes in the
form of charged particles.

Things to Think About

1. Risk Reduction is usually an automatic process for most potential hazards.

2. Knowledge and Instrumentation can form the basis for awareness in the invisible world of
ionizing radiation.
How can you reduce your EMF exposure?
Ideally when you use your laptop, put a little barrier between you and the device so that it is not touching
your lap directly. You could use a pad or a pillow barrier or use your laptop on a desk.
Keep your cell phone away from your head. This can be initially a hard habit to change but you can plug in
your headphones or use the phone speaker so you avoid holding it right up to your ear constantly.

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 Keeping your cell phone, laptop, tablet and related devices at a distance from you when you sleep is
paramount. If you must have your cell phone nearby, put it in Airplane Mode and rely on your old-fashioned
alarm clock to get you up in the morning instead. Aim to keep all the other devices out of your bedroom.
What’s More
Activity 3.2: Effects and Solutions!
Directions: Give the effects of the following EM Radiations and find its possible solutions. Write your answers
on the table.

Types of EM Radiations Possible Effects Possible Solutions fo

Reduce the Risks r
1. Radio waves
2. Infrared
3. Ultraviolet
4. X-Ray
5. Gamma Ray

What I Have Learned

Check your understanding!
1. How to reduce EM radiations?
2. What is the difference between reduction and prevention?
What I Can Do
Apply what you have learned!
1. As a student, how can you help other student to lessen the use of mobile gaming?

2. What is your possible solutions about it?

Assessment
Check your understanding!
True or False: Write the word True if the statement is correct and False if not.
1. Humans can sense ionizing radiations.
2. If you work around radioactive materials, it’s good to have a radiation detector.
3. Use a Respirator or face mask in working radioactive materials.
4. All radiations are the same.
5. Reduction any agent that can cause harm or damage to humans, property, or the environment.
Summary
• Electromagnetic waves vary in their wavelengths and frequencies. Higherfrequency waves
have more energy.
• Of all electromagnetic waves, gamma rays have the shortest wavelengths and highest
frequencies. Because of their very high frequencies, gamma rays have more energy than
any other electromagnetic waves.
• Radiation exists all around us, from both natural and manmade sources, and is in two
forms: ionizing and non-ionizing radiation.
• Non-Ionizing Radiation is a type of low-energy radiation that does not have enough energy
to remove an electron (negative particle) from an atom or molecule. below.
• Ionizing radiation is a form of energy that acts by removing electrons from atoms and
molecules of materials that include air, water, and living tissue. Ionizing radiation can
travel unseen and pass through these materials.
• Risk Reduction is usually an automatic process for most potential hazards.
Post-test
Directions: Choose the CAPITAL LETTER of the best answer. Write the chosen letter on a separate sheet of
paper.
1. According to the National Cancer Institute, what form of non-ionizing radiations has no experimental evidence
showing that at normal levels of this radiation are dangerous to humans.
A. Infrared C. Microwave
B. Extremely low frequency D. Visible light
2. Both UVA and UVB light are important for humans in the production of Vitamin D in the skin and gives us
tanning effects. Overexposure to UV radiation may cause .
A. Asthma B. Cancer C. Heart failure D. High blood pressure

3. Exposure to normal levels of extremely low frequency (ELF) waves causes

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 A. Asthma B. Brain damage C. Severe burns D. No damaging effects
4. Child like fetus is in great danger than adult from the exposure of microwave radiation.
A. False B. True
5. Which of the following is NOT an example of non-ionizing radiation?
A. Microwave B. Ultraviolet C. Visible light D. X-ray
6. About half of the total energy the sun gives off is in the form of what type of non-ionizing radiation?
A. Infrared B. Microwave C. Ultraviolet D. Visible light
7. Overexposure of microwave radiation can cause .
A. Asthma B. Brain Damage C. Cataracts D. No damaging effects
8. The narrow beam of light concentrates the effects on the retina causing blind spot. This is an effects caused by
A. Alpha radiation B. Beta radiation C. Lasers D. Ultraviolet
9. Exposure to ionizing radiation can cause cancer.
A. False B. True
10. This form of radiation is more penetrating than alpha particle, but are less damaging to living tissue and
DNA.
A. Alpha radiation B. Beta radiation C. Gamma ray D. X-ray
11. The strongest ionizing radiation is called
A. Alpha radiation C. Gamma radiation
B. Beta radiation D. Neutron radiation
12. Any agent that can cause harm or damage to humans, property, or the environment. A. Hazards B.
Mitigation C. Prevention D. Reduction
13. This occurs when an atom undergoes radioactive decay.
A. Alpha radiation C. Gamma radiation
B. Beta radiation D. Neutron radiation
14. It is classified as a carcinogen by the WHO.
A. Alpha radiation B. Beta radiation C. Gamma ray D. X-ray
15. It is a decrease or a lessening in amount, or the amount by which something decreases or goes down.
A. Hazards B. Mitigation C. Prevention D. Reduction

Answer Keys

L esson 1 L esson 2 L esson 3 P re-T est

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