Question

Compare a low dose of radiation to a human with a low dose of radiation used in food treatment.

a) Low doses are harmful to humans; low doses in food treatment are beneficial.

b) Low doses are beneficial to humans; low doses in food treatment are harmful.

c) Low doses have the same effects in both cases.

d) Low doses have no effect in either case.

Answer 1

Radiation's effects vary with context. Low doses benefit humans in medical use, but in food treatment, the creation of by-products like free radicals poses potential harm. It's crucial to differentiate between human exposure and food preservation scenarios when assessing the impact of low doses.Thus option b is the correct option.

Step-by-step explanation:

Radiation is a complex subject, and its effects depend on various factors, including dose levels and exposure scenarios. In the context of human exposure and food treatment, the answer is nuanced. While low doses of radiation can have beneficial effects on humans, such as in medical treatments, the situation differs when applied to food treatment.

Firstly, in the case of human exposure, low doses of radiation, such as those used in medical imaging, can be beneficial. They allow for diagnostic procedures and medical treatments without causing significant harm. The concept of hormesis supports the idea that low doses of certain stressors, including radiation, can have positive effects on biological systems.

However, when it comes to food treatment, the situation changes. The use of low doses of radiation in food treatment is primarily aimed at preserving and sterilizing food. While this process can be effective in reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses and spoilage, it's essential to note that the direct application of radiation to food involves different considerations than medical procedures. The potential harm in this context relates to the creation of by-products, such as free radicals, which could have detrimental health effects when consumed.

In conclusion, the effects of low doses of radiation depend on the context. While low doses can be beneficial in certain human applications, their use in food treatment introduces different considerations, and in this case, low doses can have harmful effects. It is crucial to evaluate the specific circumstances and intended outcomes when assessing the impact of radiation.

Therefore option b is the correct option.

Answer 2

Low doses of radiation are harmful to humans, potentially causing health issues. In contrast, low doses used in food treatment are beneficial, enhancing food safety by controlling pathogens without posing harm to consumers. So, the correct answer is a) Low doses are harmful to humans; low doses in food treatment are beneficial.

Step-by-step explanation:

Human Exposure to Low Doses: In the case of human exposure, even low doses of radiation can have adverse effects. Continuous exposure to radiation, even at low levels, poses potential risks to human health, including the increased likelihood of genetic mutations or cancer development.

Food Treatment with Low Doses: In contrast, low doses of radiation used in food treatment serve a beneficial purpose. These doses are applied to control pathogens, reduce spoilage, and enhance food safety. The irradiation process helps extend the shelf life of food products without causing harm to consumers.

Distinct Applications and Effects: The distinction lies in the applications and intended effects. While low doses of radiation can be harmful to humans, they are intentionally applied in food treatment to achieve specific benefits without compromising food safety.

Therefore, the correct answer is a) Low doses are harmful to humans; low doses in food treatment are beneficial.