Alpha and beta rays, or particles, are among the most common types of radiation. Chronic exposure to radiation can result in cancer, cataracts, tumors and genetic defects. When exposure is at an acute level, radiation can cause temporary or permanent sterility, or radiation sickness. Signs of radiation sickness include digestive system issues, anemia and infections. However, cells can be repaired and protected from alpha and beta particles.
Alpha and beta rays are types of radiation.
Alpha Rays
Alpha rays are high energy but short-lived.
Alpha rays are positively charged particles emitted most commonly during radioactive decay. Alpha rays are high energy molecules of radiation. High energy particles cause more damage to cells but are short-lived, whereas low energy particles live longer and cover more territory but do not cause as much damage to cells.
Alpha rays are commonly used in radiation therapy for cancer. There also are outside sources, such as uranium, radium and polonium. During external exposure, these particles do not have the energy to break past the skin particles and, therefore, are not an immediate concern. When internal exposure occurs, the cell damage is greater.
Beta Rays
Beta rays cover longer distances but do less damage.
Beta rays are electrons that are emitted from a cell nucleus when exposed to radioactive decay. They are low energy particles, travel farther and live longer than alpha rays, but do less damage to cells because of their low energy. External exposure to beta rays is generally harmless because they can be stopped by a millimeter of substance, including shirts or such metals as aluminum.
DNA Damage
Genetic mutations may occur from exposure to alpha and beta rays.
Exposure to these particles or rays will cause cell death or abnormalities (temporary or permanent). DNA that has become abnormal as a result of radiation can become malignant, causing different forms of cancer. Genetic mutations can occur when the material in the reproductive organs is exposed to alpha or beta rays. These mutations can sometimes be passed on to offspring. Sickness or death within hours or days can occur if there was a large amount of radiation exposure.
Cell Repair
DNA repair after exposure to radiation is possible depending on the damage.
DNA repair to radiation is normally a matter of getting the proper nutrients to the cell in order for it to repair itself. It is important that the damaged cell receives oxygen and glucose to provide the necessary materials for repair. Organ tissues are most likely to repair themselves, whereas other tissues of the body, such as those from the nervous system, have little or no regeneration or repair capacity.
Sources of Radiation
Natural forms of radiation can be found in the earth.
Radiation can be natural or man-made. Natural sources of radiation are typically from substances in the Earth's crust. These sources are encountered every day and have a minimal risk of adverse health conditions as a result of exposure. Man-made sources of radiation are from industry, cancer treatments and other medical procedures, such as X-rays or CT scans.
Benefits of Alpha and Beta Rays
Alpha and beta rays can help kill off cancer cells.
When used as a cancer treatment, these radiated particles can help rid the body of the malignant, abnormal cells that caused the cancer. When focusing on one small and precise area, alpha rays are the better option because their travel distance is not very large and they are easier to maintain.
Beta particles are ideal for areas of cancer that are spread out and inconsistent. Because beta particles travel farther distances and have a lower damage level than alpha, they are relied upon to treat a wider range of cancer locations without the risk of extreme damage to the healthy cells.
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