| Feature | Irradiation | Contamination |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Exposed to external radiation source | Radioactive material on/in the body |
| Danger level | Depends on type and time | Generally more dangerous |
| Can you reduce exposure? | Yes — move away, use shielding | Much harder — material stays on/in you |
| Example | X-ray, nuclear power worker | Swallowing radioactive material |
| Worst radiation type | Gamma (penetrates to internal organs) | Alpha (concentrated local damage) |
This comparison covers Irradiation vs Contamination within Uses & Hazards of Radiation for GCSE Physics. Revise Uses & Hazards of Radiation in Atomic Structure for GCSE Physics with 18 exam-style questions and 5 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 10 of 17 in this topic. Use this comparison to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Practice questions for Uses & Hazards of Radiation
Which type of radiation is used in smoke detectors?
Explain how a smoke detector uses an alpha source to detect smoke.
Quick recall flashcards
Beta stopped by?
Few mm aluminium
Most ionising?
Alpha