10

SCIENCE 10
Quarter 2 - Week 5
Module 3: The Effects of
Electromagnetic Radiation on
Living Things and the Environment

AIRs - LM
Science 10
Quarter 2 - Week 5
Module 3: The Effects of Electromagnetic Radiation on Living Things and
the Environment
First Edition, 2020

Copyright © 2020
La Union Schools Division
Region I

All rights reserved. No part of this module may be reproduced in any form
without written permission from the copyright owners.

Development Team of the Module

Author: Leonora S. Visaya

Editor: SDO La Union, Learning Resource Quality Assurance Team

Illustrator: Ernesto F. Ramos, Jr., P II

Management Team:

ATTY. Donato D. Balderas, Jr.

Schools Division Superintendent

Vivian Luz S. Pagatpatan, Ph.D

Assistant Schools Division Superintendent

German E. Flora, Ph.D, CID Chief

Virgilio C. Boado, Ph.D, EPS in Charge of LRMS

Rominel S. Sobremonte, Ed.D, EPS in Charge of Science

Michael Jason D. Morales, PDO II

Claire P. Toluyen, Librarian II

 SCIENCE 10
Quarter 2 - Week 5
Module 3: The Effects of
Electromagnetic Radiation on
Living Things and the
Environment
 Target

In the previous module you have learned about the different regions of the
electromagnetic spectrum which lead you to understand how electromagnetic
waves transport energy and how they are applied in everyday living.

In this AIRs-LM, you will be provided with informations and activities that
will enrich your understanding about the effects of non-ionizing and ionizing
electromagnetic radiation on living thing and the environment and the solution to
reduce the risk of electromagnetic radiation.
After going through this AIRs – LM, you are expected to:
1. Explain the effects of electromagnetic radiadion on living things and the
environment
( S10 – FE – Iie – f – 49 )

Pre-Test
Direction: Analyze each question then choose the letter of the best answer.
Write the letter of your choice on a separate sheet of paper.
1. Which of the following statement best describes electromagnetic
radiation?
A. EMR is classified as transverse waves
B. EMR travels long distances through obstacles
C. EMR consists of electric and magnetic fields of an EM wave
D. EMR refers to the waves of the electromagnetic field propagating
through space carrying electromagnetic radiant energy
2. Which of the following is the major source of infrared radiation?
A. Air B. Light C. Soil D. Sun
3. What type of electromagnetic radiation is used in satellite
communication, radar, television transmission and cooking?
A. Microwave B. Radio wave C. Visible Light D. X-ray
4. Radio waves are useful forms of EM waves, but they also have harmful
effects to the body. Some health experts say that too much exposure
to high frequency radio waves may _________________________________.
A. cause severe burns
B. damage body tissues
C. carry the highest amount of energy
D. cause cancer, leukemia, and other health problems
5. How do you stop cellphone radiation?
A. Sleep with your phone
B. Avoid using your phone when it has high signal
C. Carry and keep your smartphone near your body
D. Use hand free and text messages whenever possible
6. When does infrared radiation becomes a health hazard?
A. It can cause severe burns
B. It kills cells including cancerous cells
C. Exposure to high frequency may cause cancer
D. Exposure to intense electromagnetic radiation can damage the lens
and cornea of the eye
7. What is the most dangerous type of radiation?
A. Gamma rays C. Radio wave
B. Microwave D. X-rays
8. What is the effect of Electromagnetic Radiation (EMR) in living cells?
A. Living cells repair broken tissues
B. Living cells unite to form a reaction
C. Living cells are broken and damaged
D. Living cells are the building blocks of matter
9. Why is absorption of UV rays in small doses by the human body very
important? It is because _______________________
A. it helps in the production of iron needed by the body
B. it helps in the absorption of sulfur needed by the body
C. it helps in the production and absorption of sodium that makes
our bones healthy and strong
D. UV rays play an important role in the production of vitamin D
which helps in the production and absorption of calcium that
makes our bones healthy and strong
10. Despite the benefits obtained from using x-ray radiation for medical
purposes, x-ray is still considered as a potential health hazard
because of its ______________________.
A. chemical property C. intensive property
B. physical property D. ionization property
11. Which of the following is a gamma ray emitter that is use to treat
cancer cells?
A. Carbon – 12 C. Radon - 12
B. Cobalt – 60 D. Thorium – 12
12. How can infrared radiation be detected if cannot be seen? It is
detected when it is ______________________.
A. transferred to one medium to another
B. transferred from radiant energy to heat energy
C. converted to other forms of energy such as heat
D. transferred from chemical energy to thermal energy
 13. Why are high frequency electromagnetic waves like gamma rays
harmful to living things? It is because ________________________
A. they carry very high amount of energy that enable them to
penetrate and kill living cells.
B. they carry moderate amount of energy that enable them to
penetrate and kill living cells.
C. they carry low amount of energy that enable them to penetrate and
kill living cells.
D. they pass through soft tissues but are filtered by dense matter
14. What type of radiation is released by atoms that travels in the form
of electromagnetic waves on particles?
A. Infrared Radiation C. Non-ionizing Radiation
B. Ionizing Radiation D. Plasma Radiation
15. Which of the following type of ionizing radiation is the most
dangerous?
A. Alpha Radiation C. Gamma Radiation
B. Beta Radiation D. Plasma Radiation

Lesson Effects of Ionizing and Non-

1 ionizing Radiation

Jumpstart

Activity : Where Do I Belong?

Direction: Below is the lists of the types of electromagnetic radiation.

Categorize them as ionizing or non-ionizing radiation in a table.

X-ray Infrared
Gamma Ray Visible light
Microwave Ultraviolet
Alpha Beta
Neutron Gamma
Radio frequencies

Ionizing Radiation Non-ionizing Radiation

Guide Questions:

1. Identify and describe the types of ionizing radiation?

2. How is non-ionizing radiation differ from ionizing radiation?
3. What is the risk from exposure to ionizing and no-ionizing radiation?

Discover

Radiation exists all around us, from both natural and manmade
sources, and is in two forms namely, ionizing and non-ionizing radiation

Ionizing radiation is a form of energy that acts by removing electrons

from atoms and molecules of materials that include air, water, and living
tissue. Ionizing radiation can travel unseen and pass through these
materials. Ionizing radiation is also a type of energy released by atoms that
travels in the form of electromagnetic waves (Gamma or X-rays) or particles
(neutrons, beta or alpha). The spontaneous disintegration of atoms is called
radioactivity, and the excess energy emitted is a form of ionizing radiation.
Unstable elements which disintegrate and emit ionizing radiation are called
radionuclides. Ionizing radiation takes a few forms: Alpha, beta, and
neutron particles, and gamma and X-rays. All types are caused by unstable
atoms, which have either an excess of energy or mass (or both). In order to
reach a stable state, they must release that extra energy or mass in the form
of radiation.

TYPES OF IONIZING RADIATION

1. ALPHA RADIATION

The emission of an alpha particle from the nucleus of an atom Alpha

radiation occurs when an atom undergoes radioactive decay, giving off a
particle (called an alpha particle) consisting of two protons and two neutrons
(essentially the nucleus of a helium-4 atom), changing the originating atom
to one of an element with an atomic number 2 less and atomic weight 4 less
than it started with. Due to their charge and mass, alpha particles interact
strongly with matter, and only travel a few centimeters in air. Alpha
particles are unable to penetrate the outer layer of dead skin cells, but are
capable, if an alpha emitting substance is ingested in food or air, of causing
serious cell damage. Alexander Litvinenko is a famous example. He was
poisoned by polonium-210, an alpha emitter, in his tea. The health effect
from exposure to alpha particles depends greatly on how a person is
exposed. Alpha particles lack the energy to penetrate even the outer layer of
skin, so exposure to the outside of the body is not a major concern. Inside
the body, however, they can be very harmful. If alpha-emitters are inhaled,
swallowed, or get into the body through a cut, the alpha particles can
damage sensitive living tissue. The way these large, heavy particles cause
damage makes them more dangerous than other types of radiation. The
ionizations they cause are very close together - they can release all their
energy in a few cells. This results in more severe damage to cells and DNA.

2. BETA RADIATION

https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/radiation/nonionizing_radiation.html Beta
radiation: The emission of a beta particle from the nucleus of an atom Beta
radiation takes the form of either an electron or a positron (a particle with
the size and mass of an electron, but with a positive charge) being emitted
from an atom. Due to the smaller mass, it is able to travel further in air, up
to a few meters, and can be stopped by a thick piece of plastic, or even a
stack of paper. It can penetrate skin a few centimeters, posing somewhat of
an external health risk. However, the main threat is still primarily from
internal emission from ingested material. 16 Beta particles are more
penetrating than alpha particles, but are less damaging to living tissue and
DNA because the ionizations they produce are more widely spaced. They
travel farther in air than alpha particles, but can be stopped by a layer of
clothing or by a thin layer of a substance such as aluminum. Some beta
particles are capable of penetrating the skin and causing damage such as
skin burns. However, as with alpha-emitters, beta-emitters are most
hazardous when they are inhaled or swallowed.
3. GAMMA RADIATION

https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/radiation/nonionizing_radiation.html Gamma
radiation: The emission of an high-energy wave from the nucleus of an atom
Gamma radiation, unlike alpha or beta, does not consist of any particles,
instead consisting of a photon of energy being emitted from an unstable
nucleus. Having no mass or charge, gamma radiation can travel much
farther through air than alpha or beta, losing (on average) half its energy for
every 500 feet. Gamma waves can be stopped by a thick or dense enough
layer material, with high atomic number materials such as lead or depleted
uranium being the most effective form of shielding. The extremely high
energy of gamma rays allows them to penetrate just about anything. They
can even pass through bones and teeth. This makes gamma rays very
dangerous. They can destroy living cells, produce gene mutations, and cause
cancer. Ironically, the deadly effects of gamma rays can be used to treat
cancer. In this type of treatment, a medical device sends out focused gamma
rays that target cancerous cells. The gamma rays kill the cells and destroy
the cancer. 16 17

4. X-RAYS

https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/radiation/nonionizing_radiation.html X-Rays:
The emission of a high energy wave from the electron cloud of an atom X-
rays are similar to gamma radiation, with the primary difference being that
they originate from the electron cloud. This is generally caused by energy
changes in an electron, such as moving from a higher energy level to a lower
one, causing the excess energy to be released. X-Rays are longer-
wavelength and (usually) lower energy than gamma radiation, as well. X-
rays can cause mutations in our DNA and, therefore, might lead to cancer
later in life. For this reason, X-rays are classified as a carcinogen by both
the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United States government.
While X-rays are linked to a slightly increased risk of cancer, there is an
extremely low risk of short-term side effects. Exposure to high radiation
levels can have a range of effects, such as vomiting, bleeding, fainting, hair
loss, and the loss of skin and hair. However, X-rays provide such a low dose
of radiation that they are not believed to cause any immediate health
problems. The use of X-rays and radioactive materials in science, medicine,
and industry led to the recognition, documented by reports of radiation
burns, that radiation exposure, although helpful for the diagnosis and
treatment of disease, might also be harmful, and protective measures were
taken to limit exposure All X-rays are dangerous because they can damage
healthy living cells. Of the body. This is the reason why frequent exposure to
X-rays should be avoided. Too much exposure to X-rays can damage body
tissues and can cause cancer. 18

5. NEUTRON RADIATION

https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/radiation/nonionizing_radiation.html Neutron
radiation: The emission of a neutron from the nucleus of an atom Lastly,
Neutron radiation consists of a free neutron, usually emitted as a result of
spontaneous or induced nuclear fission. Able to travel hundreds or even
thousands of meters in air, they are however able to be effectively stopped if
blocked by a hydrogen-rich material, such as concrete or water. Not typically
able to ionize an atom directly due to their lack of a charge, neutrons most
commonly are indirectly ionizing, in that they are absorbed into a stable
atom, thereby making it unstable and more likely to emit off ionizing
radiation of another type. Neutrons are, in fact, the only type of radiation
that is able to turn other materials radioactive. In health physics neutron
radiation is a type of radiation hazard. Another, sometimes more severe
hazard of neutron radiation, is neutron activation, the ability of neutron
radiation to induce radioactivity in most substances it encounters, including
bodily tissues. [2] This occurs through the capture of neutrons by atomic
nuclei, which are transformed to another nuclide, frequently a radionuclide.
This process accounts for much of the radioactive material released by the
detonation of a nuclear weapon. It is also a problem in nuclear fission and
nuclear fusion installations as it gradually renders the equipment
radioactive such that eventually it must be replaced and disposed of as low-
level radioactive waste.

Non-Ionizing Radiation

Non-Ionizing Radiation is a type of low-energy radiation that does not

have enough energy to remove an electron (negative particle) from an atom
or molecule. Most types of non-ionizing radiation have not been found to
cause cancer. This radiation exists all around us from many sources. It
is to the left of ionizing radiation on the electromagnetic spectrum in
the figure below.

Non-ionizing radiation includes visible, infrared, and ultraviolet light;

microwaves; radio waves; and radiofrequency energy from cell phones.

The dividing line between non-ionizing and ionizing radiation

occurs in the ultraviolet part of the electromagnetic spectrum [shown
in the illustration of the electromagnetic spectrum above]. Radiation in
the ultraviolet band and at lower energies (to the left of ultraviolet) is
called non-ionizing radiation, while at the higher energies to the right
of the ultraviolet band is called ionizing radiation.

Types of Non-Ionizing Radiation

Ultraviolet

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation comes from the sun, welding, black

lights and UV lasers. The sun emits UVA, UVB and UVC rays. UVC
rays are absorbed by the ozone layer and never actually reach the
Earth. Both UVA and UVB light are important for humans in the
production of Vitamin D. However, the effects of overexposure to UV
rays can be negative and can be immediate or delayed. Sunburn, skin
cancer and cataracts develop over time with excessive exposure.

Visible Light

The visible light portion of the electromagnetic spectrum can be

seen by humans, animals and other organisms. This type of light
consists of seven colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and
violet. When all the colors are present at one time, the light is white.
Rainbows are created when visible light passes through raindrops. The
raindrops act like a prism and break the light down into its individual
colors. Overexposure to visible light can damage both the eyes and
skin.

Infrared

Everything on Earth gives off some amount of infrared (IR)

radiation. The human eye can’t see most of the IR spectrum, but we
can feel it as heat. IR radiation is used in furnaces, heat lamps,
toasters, night-vision goggles and the lasers seen on TV remote
controls. About half of the total energy the sun gives off is in the form
of IR radiation, which we feel as heat. In large amounts, this type of
radiation can damage the eyes and even cause blindness.
IR radiation from the sun is normally absorbed by the Earth’s surface
and the clouds, then released as heat into the atmosphere. When the
atmosphere has a lot of water vapor, along with nitrogen, sulfur and
fluorocarbons, the IR radiation gets trapped and causes the
atmospheric temperature to rise.
This is called the greenhouse effect. Temperature increases like this
cause changes in the weather patterns on Earth and lead to climate
change.

Microwaves

Microwave radiation (MW) comes from microwave ovens, radar,

transmission towers, satellite transmissions, the sun and Cosmic
Microwave Background (CMB) radiation. CMB is radiation left over
from the Big Bang when the universe began. A microwave oven works
because microwaves excite the water molecules in food and cause
them to vibrate, generating heat and cooking the food. Atoms and
molecules can also emit and absorb MW radiation. Overexposure to
MW radiation can cause cataracts and skin burns.
There are three subcategories of MW radiation. Extremely high
frequency (EHF) waves are used in remote sensors and radio
astronomy. Super high frequency (SHF) waves are commonly used in
microwave ovens, radar transmitters, cell phones and satellite
communications. Finally, the ultra-high frequency (UHF) is used in
television broadcasts, walkie-talkies and cordless phones. Microwaves
are sometimes grouped with radio waves because these two types of
non-ionizing radiation have some overlap on the electromagnetic
spectrum.

Radio Frequencies

AM and FM radio broadcasts, Wi-Fi signals, cell phones,

amateur radio, television and airport security scanners use radio
frequency (RF) waves. This type of non-ionizing radiation is absorbed
throughout the body. The effects of RF waves on the body are similar
to MW radiation in terms of heat generation. Exposure to
electromagnetic fields in this frequency range can warm up exposed
tissues because these absorb the radio wave and convert these into
heat. The frequency level determines the depth of penetration into the
body. For example, using a cell phone causes the ear and/or head to
get warm. Warming up by this radiation is the most dangerous for the
brain, eyes, genitals, stomach, liver and kidneys. Like MW radiation,
RF waves are divided into categories: high frequency (HF), medium
frequency (MF), low frequency (LF) and very low frequency (VLF). There
is no scientific proof that RF non-ionizing radiation increases the risk
of cancer or causes any harmful effects on the body.

Extremely Low Frequencies

Extremely low frequency7 (ELF) waves are on the far end of the
electromagnetic spectrum and come from power lines, electrical
equipment and wiring, and electrical appliances such as electric
blankets, refrigerators, razors, and hair dryers. ELF waves can go
through water, so they are also used for detection by submarines.
According to the National Cancer Institute, there is no experimental
evidence showing that normal levels of ELF radiation are dangerous to
humans.
 Explore

Here is an enrichment activity for you to work on to master and

strengthen the basic concepts you have learned from this lesson.

Activity: Let’s Play Word Factory!

Direction: Search and encircle the terms of words pertaining to the

types of electromagnetic radiation in the puzzle.

M I E L E C T R O M A G N E T I C
I N A A L P H A B S B C E H K I S
C F B A S D G H J P K L U T U F S
R R Q E W E R T G E Y U T U L V R
O A W A T S D N F C D D R F T H A
W R A F G A I H I T I G O C R J D
A E C V B Z B M N R I G N S A F I
V D G Q I W E F G U X Y U N V A O
E D Q N A D G A M M A R G B I H W
E F O D G H J K L H C B A B O A A
V I S I B L E L I G H T T Y L D V
V B N M K L O H F S A V D A E A E
N O N I O N I Z I N G D A S T R U
R W Q R A D I A T I O N D F R T Y
 Deepen

Activity 1: Risks of Non-ionizing Radiation!

Directions:
1. Refer to the chart below we can see that Non-Ionizing radiation
comes in the forms of: ELF (extremely low frequency), Radio Frequencies,
Microwave
Frequencies, Lasers, Infrared, Visible Spectrum and Ultraviolet

https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/radiation/nonionizing_radiation.html

2. Write the effects of the different types of non-ionizing radiation on the

table below.
Non-ionizing Radiations Health Effects
1. Extremely Low Frequency
2. Radio frequencies
3. microwave
4. Infrared
5. Visible spectrum
6. Ultraviolet
Activity 2: Effects of Ionizing Radiation!

Directions:
1. Refer again to the chart below we can see that Ionizing radiation
comes in the forms of: X-rays, gamma rays, alpha radiation, beta
radiations and neutron radiations

Ionizing Radiations

https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/radiation/nonionizing_radiation.html

2. Write the effects of the different types of ionizing radiations on the table
below.

Ionizing Radiations Health Effects

1. X-rays
2. Gamma rays
3. Alpha radiation
4. Beta Radiations
5. Neutron radiations
 Gauge

Activity: Electromagnetic radiation: A Risk or Benefit

Direction: Complete the table using the given pictures on the table.
Pictures Gadget/ Types of Benefit Risk
Device Electro-
magnetic
Radiation
 Great job! You are done with this
lesson.

Lesson Possible Solutions to

2 Reduce EM Radiation
Hazards
People are exposed to natural radiation sources as well as human-made
sources on a daily basis. Common sense and some basic information can greatly
reduce radiation exposure and risk for most people.
How can a parent do to reduce the exposures of EM radiations? Like for
example, children playing with electronic gadgets (mobile phones, laptops,
electronic games) are a common sight these days.
To understand further about the possible ways to reduce EM radiation
exposures, try to perform the next activity for you to acquire some basic
information to help you minimize your dose and risk.
 Jumpstart

Activity 1: Electronic Gadgets and Devices

Objective: Name the gadget/device and cite some ways to avoid exposure to
radiation
Material: Images
Procedures:
1. Look at the images below.
2. Analyze the image and write some possible ways to reduce EM
radiations in using gadgets and devices.

1 2

3 4

5
Gadgets/Devices Ways to Avoid Gadgets Exposure
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
 Discover

How to Reduce EM Radiation?

Common sense and some basic information can greatly reduce radiation
exposure and risk for most people. Here are some basic information to help you
minimize or reduce your doses and risks of electromagnetic radiation

1. Humans cannot sense ionizing radiation. When we have been in the sun
too long our body usually tells us it’s time to get in the shade. Ionizing
radiation is different. We cannot see, hear or sense ionizing radiation under
normal circumstances, unless we have radiation detector to help us out.
2. All radiation isn’t the same. Sunlight and light from the stars (and the
lights in your home) are electromagnetic radiation. So is the radiation from
your microwave oven. Although there are risks from exposure to sunlight
and microwave radiation, that risk is from a different type of impact than the
risk created by ionizing radiation.
3. Ionizing Radiation comes in Waves. One form of ionizing radiation (gamma
radiation) is electromagnetic (much like the visible light from the stars), but
it’s wavelength is shorter and thus more penetrating. It has enough energy
to alter atoms, molecules and DNA. It can also create free radicals in the
human body.
4. Gamma Radiation and X Rays Share Similar Characteristics. Both are
electromagnetic with wavelengths shorter (and more penetrating) than visible
light. Gamma rays are released when unstable radioactive minerals release
energy as they change state and chemical composition. X-rays are created by
humans (usually deliberately) in an electrical mechanical process, typically
for the purpose of medical or industrial imaging. Some energies of gamma
and x radiation are more potentially damaging than others, but that is a big
discussion. As a general rule, itʻs good to limit exposure to gamma and x
rays, and other forms of ionizing radiation, to as low as reasonably
achievable.
5. Ionizing Radiation also comes in the form of charged particles. There
are subatomic particles that can ionize matter when released from an atom
undergoing transition – and the most notable of these are alpha and beta
particles.
6. Waves and Particles both Matter. There is a lot going on in the invisible
subatomic realm. While gamma and x rays are basically light that has such
short wavelength that it is outside the visible range, particles have mass and
weight. Both forms of ionizing radiation can affect matter by altering other
atoms, molecules and DNA (what we are made of).
7. More about Alpha radiation: Although not nearly as penetrating as beta
and gamma radiation, alpha radiation can actually be more damaging if the
source is taken internally by respiration or ingestion.
8. More about Beta Radiation. Beta radiation is often ignored in dosimetry.
Risk from beta radiation is relative depending on the energy of the particle
and whether the source is external24or ingested. Certain radionuclides that
emit beta radiation, such as Strontium 90, can accumulate in the bones and
create increased health risk.
 9. We Should not forget Neutrons. (especially if you work around nuclear
reactors). They don’t have an electrical charge like alpha and beta particles,
but they do have mass and can induce biological effects. If you donʻt work
around reactors or strategic nuclear materials there is little or no reason to
be concerned about them. If you do work around an operating reactor then
you need special training and specialized instruments to protect yourself. If
you are trying to detect certain materials used in nuclear weapons, neutrons
detection can be important.

How to Protect Yourself from EM Radiation

1. If you work around radioactive materials it’s good to have a radiation
detector. Things change from day to day. Other workers can forget to
replace shielding around sources. X-ray machines can be be inadvertently
activated. Things can get spilled. Itʻs good to review your environment on a
regular basis.
2. Counting on a Dosimeter can leave you Vulnerable. Dosimeters generally
tell you what dose you have received after the fact. While this may be useful
for regulatory compliance and limiting your lifetime dose, it does not help
you keep your dose minimized on a day to day basis.
3. Use Time Distance and Shielding to Protect Yourself. Putting distance
and shielding between you and a radiation source is an immediately effective
way of reducing your exposure. Reducing the time you are being exposed is
another way.
4. Use a Respirator or Face Mask if You are exposed to airborne sources.
5. Properly Label Sources and keep them Shielded.
6. Be Aware of All Sources of Radiation Exposure. We are all exposed to
radiation every day from natural sources, outer space, the earth, radon gas
in our homes and businesses. We are also exposed inadvertently to sources
that can include people undergoing medical procedures and radioactive
7. Be Thoughtful and Informed about Medical X-rays. Medical imaging can
provide important and lifesaving diagnostic information. It is also sometimes
used unnecessarily. Sometimes the same diagnostic information can be
obtained by using techniques that reduce dose.

Things to Think About

1. Risk Reduction is usually an automatic process for most potential
hazards. It’s something that we do every day, whether we are conscious
about it or not. When we pull our car out from a side street onto a main road
our eyes, ears and brain are at heightened
2. Awareness. We are sensing, observing, listening, internally calculating the
speed of oncoming vehicles, making judgements about when it is safe to
proceed and how rapidly or slowly to do so.
With radiation we are limited in what we can see, so we need instruments,
knowledge and awareness to navigate.
3. Knowledge and Instrumentation can form the basis for awareness in the
invisible world of ionizing radiation. A good radiation detector will help
you learn what is hot and what is not. Many people will find that things are
pretty normal around them. Every person with a good instrument will also
find that we are surrounded by naturally occurring radiation all of the time.
Whether it is the muons raining on the surface of the earth from outer
space, or the naturally occurring radiation in the soil beneath our feet, there
is always some radiation present in our lives. We can’t do anything about
that. What we want to do is limit the extra and unnecessary exposures that
are preventable, and relax. Stress can also cause health problems.
WHAT ARE EMFS?
EMFs or electromagnetic frequencies are essentially electric and magnetic
fields that radiate energy. The sun gives out EMFs as do power lines. Many
appliances and systems that use electricity also emit EMFs. Low level EMF
exposure is not believed to be dangerous and common in microwaves, cell phones,
X-rays, MRIs, power lines and more. EMF exposure decreases as the distance
between you and the object emitting EMF increases.
Today as high as 87 percent of the world’s population uses electricity daily
and this number is expected to go up significantly in the near future, according to
the World Bank.

HOW CAN EMF’S IMPACT OUR HEALTH?

Electrical devices produce frequencies that communicate with the electrons
and atoms within our cellular structures. This can cause disruptions in the body
chemistry.
Research conducted about EMF exposure has revealed that EMFs can
reduce the pineal glands production of melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone
necessary for sleep that also has the powerful ability to suppress cancer cells.
Sensitivity to EMF exposure can vary but symptoms include fatigue, poor
sleep and a lower ability to handle stress than previously. Long-term exposure can
result in foggy brain and has been linked to conditions ranging from chronic fatigue
to mitochondrial issues, poor neurological health, anxiety and ADHD.

HOW CAN YOU REDUCE YOUR EMF EXPOSURE?

Ideally when you use your laptop, put a little barrier between you and the
device so that it is not touching your lap directly. You could use a pad or a pillow
barrier or use your laptop on a desk.
Keep your cell phone away from your head. This can be initially a hard habit
to change but you can plug in your headphones or use the phone speaker so you
avoid holding it right up to your ear constantly.
Keeping your cell phone, laptop, tablet and related devices at a distance from
you when you sleep is paramount. Far too many people fall asleep with their cell
phones next to their head. If you must have your cell phone nearby, put it in
Airplane Mode and rely on your old-fashioned alarm clock to get you up in the
morning instead. Aim to keep all the other devices out of your bedroom.
Overall, the evidence suggests that the radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic
energy (EME) emissions of mobile phone handsets are not harmful to the user.
However, it's impossible to be completely sure there isn't some risk. This is
particularly true for children where there is little research evidence.
One way to exercise caution is to reduce unnecessary exposure from your
handset and to encourage your children to do this. This can be done easily.
Remember, it doesn't have to be for every phone call and in an emergency there are
better things to worry about.

You can reduce your exposure to RF and EMF from your mobile phone in
three simple ways:
1. Distance
The most effective way to reduce the exposure is to increase the distance
between your mobile phone and your head or body.
2. Time
If there are any harmful effects, then it’s likely that the longer the exposure
to RF EME the greater any risk may be.
 3. Power
Usually a phone in an area with good reception will transmit at much lower
levels than in an area with poor reception like a lift or deep within a large
building.

WAYS TO REDUCE YOUR EMF EXPOSURE

1. Get rid of your microwave
It is easy to get rid of this typical kitchen device, and use more healthy
ways not only for your food's nutrition, but for your personal and family's
health. Use a convention oven or re-heat on the stove, or eat more raw and live
foods so you don't have to worry about this ;)
2. Power down at night.
Connect your WI-FI to a switch so you can turn it off at night and when
you do not need it during the day. This helps to lower the exposure in your
home environment and get a better night's sleep.
3. Change your cell phone to airplane mode.
If you use your phone as an alarm clock it is best to turn off the wireless
signal so it is not being emitted all night long close to your brain. Also when
walking or carrying your phone on you, if you do not need it, just put it on
airplane mode.
4. Keep all wireless devices out of the kitchen and bedroom.
Best to keep all these devices out of where you eat and sleep as they are
the two most highly used spaces of the home and where you spend much of your
time.
5. Do not carry your phone on your body.
6. Use a selfie-stick
7. Talk on your wireless device using speakerphone.
8. Eat these spices and take a magnesium supplement
9. Earthing

Explore

Activity: Effects and Solutions!

Directions: Give the effects of the following EM Radiations and find its possible
solutions to reduce the risks. Write your answers on the table.

Types of EM Possible Effects Possible Solutions to Reduce

Radiations the Risks
1. Radio waves
2. Infrared
3. Ultraviolet
4. X-Ray
5. Gamma Ray
6. Microwave
7.Visible Light
 Deepen

Check your understanding!

Direction: Answer the following questions briefly on a separate sheet of paper.

1. How to reduce EM radiations?

2. How will you protect yourself from electromagnetic radiation?
3. What are EMFs?
4. How can you reduce your exposure in laptop and cellphone?
5. What are some ways to reduce EMF radiation exposure of gadgets/devices in
your home and environment?

Gauge

Direction: As a student, how will you help find solutions to reduce the effects of EM
radiation hazards. It’s time to present and express your ideas in your most creative
way by choosing one of the following tasks.
A. Making of poster slogan
B. Construct an essay on how to reduce the effects of EM radiation.
C. Compose a poem.

Consider the following criteria to serve as your guide in completing your task.

CRITERIA PERCENT
Content 30 %
Achievement of Objective 25 %
Graphic-Relevance 20 %
Creativity 25 %
TOTAL 100%
Post test
Direction: Choose the letter of the best answer. Write the letter of your
choice on a separate sheet of paper
1. Which of the following statement best describes electromagnetic
radiation?
A. EMR is classified as transverse waves
B. EMR travels long distances through obstacles
C. EMR consists of electric and magnetic fields of an EM wave
D. EMR refers to the waves of the electromagnetic field propagating
through space carrying electromagnetic radiant energy
2. Which of the following is the major source of infrared radiation?
A. Air B. Light C. Soil D. Sun
3. What type of electromagnetic radiation is used in satellite
communication, radar, television transmission and cooking?
A. Microwave B. Radio wave C. Visible Light D. X-ray
4. Radio waves are useful forms of EM waves, but they also have harmful
effects to the body. Some health experts say that too much exposure
to high frequency radio waves may _________________________________.
A. cause severe burns
B. damage body tissues
C. carry the highest amount of energy
D. cause cancer, leukemia, and other health problems
5. How do you stop cellphone radiation?
A. Sleep with your phone
B. Avoid using your phone when it has high signal
C. Carry and keep your smartphone near your body
D. Use hand free and text messages whenever possible
6. When does infrared radiation becomes a health hazard?
A. It can cause severe burns
B. It kills cells including cancerous cells
C. Exposure to high frequency may cause cancer
D. Exposure to intense electromagnetic radiation can damage the lens
and cornea of the eye
7. What is the most dangerous type of radiation?
A. Gamma rays C. Radio wave
B. Microwave D. X-rays
8. What is the effect of Electromagnetic Radiation (EMR) in living cells?
A. Living cells repair broken tissues
B. Living cells unite to form a reaction
C. Living cells are broken and damaged
D. Living cells are the building blocks of matter
9. Why is absorption of UV rays in small doses by the human body very
important? It is because _______________________
A. it helps in the production of iron needed by the body
B. it helps in the absorption of sulfur needed by the body
C. it helps in the production and absorption of sodium that makes
our bones healthy and strong
D. UV rays play an important role in the production of vitamin D
which helps in the production and absorption of calcium that
makes our bones healthy and strong
10. Despite the benefits obtained from using x-ray radiation for medical
purposes, x-ray is still considered as a potential health hazard
because of its ______________________.
A. chemical property C. intensive property
B. physical property D. ionization property
11. Which of the following is a gamma ray emitter that is use to treat
cancer cells?
A. Carbon – 12 C. Radon - 12
B. Cobalt – 60 D. Thorium – 12
12. How can infrared radiation be detected if cannot be seen? It is
detected when it is ______________________.
A. transferred to one medium to another
B. transferred from radiant energy to heat energy
C. converted to other forms of energy such as heat
D. transferred from chemical energy to thermal energy
13. Why are high frequency electromagnetic waves like gamma rays
harmful to living things? It is because ________________________
A. they carry very high amount of energy that enable them to
penetrate and kill living cells.
B. they carry moderate amount of energy that enable them to
penetrate and kill living cells.
C. they carry low amount of energy that enable them to penetrate and
kill living cells.
D. they pass through soft tissues but are filtered by dense matter
14. What type of radiation is released by atoms that travels in the form
of electromagnetic waves on particles?
A. Infrared Radiation C. Non-ionizing Radiation
B. Ionizing Radiation D. Plasma Radiation
15. Which of the following type of ionizing radiation is the most
dangerous?
A. Alpha Radiation C. Gamma Radiation
B. Beta Radiation D. Plasma Radiation
References

Book
Science 10 1st Edition 2015. Department of Education

Vengco, Lilia G., Navaza, Delia C. et.al. (2015). You and the Natural World.
Science the New Grade 10 K to 12 Curriculum. Phoenix Publishing House,
Inc.

Physical Science. Glencoe MacGraw Hill Company. Texas Edition

Website
https://biologydictionary.net/non-ionizing-radiation

https://www.mirion.com/learning-center/radiation-safety-basics/types-of-
ionizing-radiation

https://www.cityhousecountryhome.com/how-to-reduce-exposure-to-emfs-
in-your-home/

https://breannegibson.com/blog/2017/9/20/9-simple-ways-to-reduce-
emf-exposure

https://www.cdc.gov.nceh/radiation/nonionizing_radiation.html