3.13 understand the detrimental effects of excessive exposure of the human body to electromagnetic waves, and describe simple protective measures against the risks

3.13 understand the detrimental effects of excessive exposure of the human body to electromagnetic waves, and describe simple protective measures against the risks

Microwaves: Micro waves might cause internal heating of body tissue. For this microwave ovens have metal screens that reflect microwaves and keep them inside the oven. It also has perceived risk of cancer.
It can be prevented by closing oven doors and using hands-free cell phones.

Infrared: The human body can be harmed by too much exposure to infra-red radiation, which can cause skin burning and cell damage.
It can be prevented by avoiding hot places, using reflective clothing and avoiding exposure to sun.

Visible light: Visible light can cause eye damage.
It can be prevented by sun glasses and avoiding exposure to the sun.

Ultraviolet: Overexposure of ultraviolet light will lead to sunburn and blistering. This can also cause skin cancer and blindness.
Protective goggles or glasses and skin creams can block the UV rays and will reduce the harmful effects of this radiation.

X-rays: X-ray has risk of cancer and cell damage.
Lead shielding, Monitor exposure (film badge), protective clothing can be used to prevent the risk.

Gamma rays: Gamma rays can damage to living cells. The damage can cause mutations in genes and can lead to cancer.
Lead shielding, Monitor exposure (film badge) can be used to prevent the risk.