Language
Country/Area
No result found
Why are alpha particles called the "invisible threat in the universe"?
Alpha particles, also called alpha rays or alpha radiation, consist of two protons and two neutrons and have exactly the same properties as a helium-4 nucleus. They are usually produced during alpha decay, but can be generated in other ways as well. The origin of alpha particles and their potential hazards have made them a hot topic in the scientific community and become an "invisible threat."
Characteristics and origin of alpha particles
The name of the alpha particle comes from the first letter of the Greek alphabet, α. Their symbols are α or α2+. These particles are produced at 4% the speed of light with a kinetic energy of about 5 MeV and are highly ionizing in terms of penetration depth, typically only a few centimeters into the air or human skin.
Alpha particles are considered one of the most destructive forms of radiation in the universe and can cause serious harm if they enter the human body.
When it comes to their sources, the most common source of alpha particles is the alpha decay process of heavy elements such as uranium and thorium. In this process, the atom releases an alpha particle, its mass number decreases by 4, and its atomic number decreases by 2, thus transforming into a new element.
Biological effects of alpha particles
Due to their absorption range and inability to penetrate human skin, alpha particles usually do not pose a threat to life. However, once it enters the human body, the harm it causes will be devastating. Alpha particles can cause extensive chromosomal damage, up to 20 times more than other forms of radiation.
Research has shown that the potential cancer risk of alpha particles is equivalent to the same dose of gamma radiation, highlighting the underappreciated nature of their hazards.
For example, the alpha particle-emitting radionuclide polonium-210 has been clearly linked to lung and bladder cancer in smokers. A real case of its fatality to humans was the murder of Russian dissident Litvinenko by polonium-210 in 2006, which further revealed the terrifying properties of alpha particles.
Applications of Alpha Particles
In addition to the hidden threats, alpha particles also play an important role in science, technology and medicine. For example, some smoke detectors contain a small dose of the alpha emitter polonium-241 and use the ionization of the air by alpha particles to detect smoke.
Alpha decay is also used to power batteries for space probes, applications that depend on its relative safety and stability.
In medicine, alpha radiation is used to treat certain cancers by delivering it precisely to the tumor through specialized therapies. The development of these technologies allows scientists to use the power of alpha particles to fight cancer, demonstrating its potential positive applications.
Conclusion
In summary, the alpha particle has aroused widespread attention and discussion in the scientific community due to its dual nature. Hidden in our daily lives, whether as a potential health threat or as part of cutting-edge technology, alpha particles are undoubtedly a phenomenon worthy of in-depth study. After understanding their characteristics and potential impacts, should we remain vigilant against this "invisible threat"?
