Final answer:
Ionizing radiation from natural sources can have several consequences, including increased risk of cancer, genetic mutations, and environmental contamination.
Step-by-step explanation:
When ionizing radiation from natural sources increases due to human actions such as mining radioactive elements, it can have several consequences including:
- Increased risk of cancer: Radiation can damage cells and DNA, increasing the likelihood of developing cancer.
- Genetic mutations: Radiation can cause mutations in DNA, which can be passed on to future generations.
- Environmental contamination: Mining radioactive elements can lead to the release of radioactive materials into the environment, posing a risk to ecosystems and organisms.
Therefore, the correct answer is 4) All of the above.