If Radioactive Materials Are So Dangerous, Why Are Alpha Emitters

question 55

Multiple Choice

If radioactive materials are so dangerous, why are alpha emitters like Americium-241 readily found in the home in such things as smoke detectors?

• A) radioactive materials only emit radiation when exposed to bright sunlight
• B) small amounts of a radioactive material are safe to be handled
• C) man made alpha emitters are much more easily handled than natural isotopes
• D) gaseous alpha emitters are the only dangerous ones
• E) alpha particles do not penetrate well and are absorbed by air or smoke.

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Definitions:

Inconsistent With Attitudes

A psychological state where an individual's behaviors do not align with their beliefs or feelings.

Situations

Instances or sets of circumstances that occur or are perceived by individuals, often influencing their behavior and decisions.

Actions

The process of doing something in order to achieve a goal or perform a task.

Cognitive Dissonance

The unease in one's mind resulting from holding multiple inconsistent beliefs, ideas, or values concurrently.