What is the effect of radiation on living cells?

Radiation can damage living cells by ionising atoms and molecules, leading to mutations and cell death.

Radiation can have a range of effects on living cells, depending on the type and dose of radiation. Ionising radiation, such as gamma rays and X-rays, can cause damage by ionising atoms and molecules within the cell. This can lead to mutations in the DNA, which can cause cancer or other genetic disorders. High doses of radiation can also cause cell death, as the ionisation can damage the cell membrane and other vital structures within the cell.

The effects of radiation on living cells can be mitigated by various factors. For example, the body has natural repair mechanisms that can fix some of the damage caused by radiation. Additionally, lower doses of radiation may not cause significant damage, as the body can repair the damage faster than it occurs. However, exposure to high doses of radiation can overwhelm the body's repair mechanisms, leading to serious damage to cells and tissues.

Overall, the effect of radiation on living cells is complex and depends on a range of factors. While radiation can be harmful, it is also widely used in medicine and industry for a range of purposes, from cancer treatment to sterilisation of medical equipment. Understanding the effects of radiation on living cells is therefore important for a range of applications.