Question

Overexposure to this range of EM radiation is dangerous, and yet it is used by doctors to diagnose medical problems.

Part A—Identify the type of radiation.
Part B—Locate the position of this radiation on the EM spectrum by comparing its frequency and wavelength to visible light.
Part C—Explain why this radiation is both dangerous and therapeutic in terms of its energy, based on your answer to Part B.

a) Part A: Gamma rays; Part B: Beyond violet light; Part C: High energy can damage cells.

b) Part A: Microwaves; Part B: Between red and infrared light; Part C: Low energy can penetrate tissues.

c) Part A: X-rays; Part B: Beyond violet light; Part C: Moderate energy can ionize atoms.

d) Part A: Ultraviolet radiation; Part B: Between violet and X-rays; Part C: Medium energy can cause sunburn.

Answer 1

X-rays are a type of radiation that, while potentially dangerous due to their moderate to high energy and ionizing capability, are useful for medical diagnosis because they can penetrate tissues to create internal images.

Step-by-step explanation:

Part A: Identify the Type of Radiation

The radiation that can be dangerous when overexposed but is used by doctors for medical diagnosis is X-rays.

Part B: Locate the Position on the EM Spectrum

X-rays are located on the electromagnetic (EM) spectrum at frequencies higher than visible light, positioned beyond violet light.

Part C: The Duality of X-rays as Dangerous and Therapeutic

X-rays have moderate to high energy that can ionize atoms, leading to cell and DNA damage. This makes overexposure dangerous. However, due to their ability to penetrate tissues, X-rays can be used in moderate, controlled doses to create images of the body's interior, which is invaluable for medical diagnoses.