![]() ![]() The good news is that, unless tampered with, smoke detectors pose little or no health risk to users. The drop in current flow is interpreted by the circuitry as abnormal and results in activating the inbuilt alarm. When smoke enters the chamber of the smoke detector, it disrupts the smooth flow of the ions. Particles it emits ionises the air between the plates, and this causes current to flow between the plates. In the smoke detector, americium-241 is positioned between two electrically charged plates. These particles, whilst passing through matter, interact with it in diverse ways resulting in the matter losing some of its constituent electrons in a process called ionisation. Radioactive elements are known to discharge particles continuously. Most smoke detectors in use in our homes, offices, and public places utilise a radioactive element known as americium-241. There are many consumer products we use daily that have components emitting radiations (radioactive) and most people are unaware of. Every day introduces a new possibility for radiation to be useful to us. To test the integrity of structures, built and welded, radiations are applied in like manner to detect cracks or airspaces within the structures without destroying them in an internationally sanctioned protocol known as Non-Destructive Testing. It is upon suspicion that there might be contraband or undeclared goods among the lot that physical examination of the contents of such containers are sanctioned.Ī similar practice is in place at airports for examining luggage. Radiations from X-ray scanners make the contents of shipping containers visible in shades of grey on screens before the prying eyes of port authorities. Today, shipping containers at the Ports and Harbours do not go through laborious and time-consuming physical inspections which often leads to the theft of items. The potential use of radiation for human benefit is ever-growing. ![]() That notwithstanding, radiations have proved very beneficial in diagnosing cancer, identifying swallowed objects, treatment of cancer, and many others. The evidence of such abounds from the storied history of nuclear accidents, the use of nuclear bombs in battles during World War II, and many other radiological incidents. It is a known fact that radiation can cause harm to the body and the environment. The peaceful applications of radiation in our everyday lives have brought a lot of comfort to many. Radiation is a good servant but a bad master. ![]() Radiation is one of the most feared and misunderstood phenomena by a large section of society. ![]()
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