Question

Part 1: Our smoke detectors safe?

Part 2: Radon gas is in an insert gas that is not toxic or poisonous, but is radioactive and emits alpha particles. Why is radon dangerous?

Part 3: What are the advantages and problems with nuclear energy?

Background information: The modern theory of the atom is that the atom consist of a nucleus of protons and neutrons. Electrons surrounding the nucleus, not as particles orbiting the nucleus, but as standing matter waves like the standing waves on a guitar string that has been plucked. As such, there location is not precisely known. Most of the atom is empty space. The total energy of an electron in an atomis quantized meaning it has certain discrete energy values such as 1 or 2 or 3 energy units, but nothing in between like 1, 23 or 2.76 energy units. When an electron in an atom has a transition (i.e. falls) from a higher energy state to a lower energy state, the atom can give off a particle of light called a photon.

With regards to the nucleus, if the ratio of the number of neutrons to the number of protons is greater than about 1. The nucleus is unstable. First, the three main decay products of an unstable or radioactive nucleus are alpha particles, better particles, and gamma rays. Alpha particles are just then nucleus of a helium atom (2 protons and 2 neutrons). They do not penetrate very far. Dead skin or a sheet of paper can stop them. Beta particles are electrons and can penetrate a thin layer of steel. A 1-cm thick piece of plastic can stop them. Gamma rays are high-energy protons and are very penetrating.

If a radioactive isotope that emits alpha particles is ingested, the living tissue stops them and obsorbes their energy. Smoke detectors contain a radioactive isotope that emits alpha particles.

Answer 1

Part 1: Our smoke detectors safe?

Ans : Yes.

Explanation : Smoke Detectors are of mainly two types. Ionization chamber and photoelectric smoke detectors are the two most common types. Both work very well and are safe to use.There are no health concerns with photoelectric smoke detectors because no radiation is involved. Ionization chamber smoke detectors contain a small amount of americium-241, a radioactive material.

Ionization smoke detectors expose people to a tiny amount of radiation—about 1/100 of a millirem per year. This is well below the background radiation level of about 360 millirems a year.

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Part 2: Radon gas is in an insert gas that is not toxic or poisonous, but is radioactive and emits alpha particles. Why is radon dangerous?

Ans:  Radon is a naturally occurring, radioactive, odorless, colorless, tasteless gas. It dramatically increases the risk of cancer in those who inhale air contaminated with it for long periods of time.

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Part 3: What are the advantages and problems with nuclear energy?

Ans:

Advantages:

1. The generation of electricity through nuclear energy reduces the amount of energy generated from fossil fuels (coal and oil). Less use of fossil fuels means lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
2. It has a very high Calorific Value.
3. The production of electric powered energy is continuous. A nuclear strength plant is generating electricity for almost 90% of annual time. It reduces the rate volatility of different fuels such as petrol.

Disadvantages :

1. One of the main disadvantages is the difficulty in the management of nuclear waste. It takes many years to eliminate its radioactivity and risks.
2. The constructed nuclear reactors have an expiration date.