Why are children more susceptible to the effects of ionizing radiation?
A. They have many growing cells that can easily have DNA damaged.
B. They move around a lot and pick up radiation.
C. They do not know how to prevent exposure to radiation.
D. They get sick easily.
A. They have many growing cells that can easily have DNA damaged.
The correct answer is A. They have many growing cells that can easily have DNA damaged.
Children are more susceptible to the effects of ionizing radiation because they have more rapidly dividing cells compared to adults. The DNA in rapidly dividing cells is more susceptible to damage caused by ionizing radiation. As a result, children are at a higher risk of developing radiation-induced cancers and other illnesses. The other options mentioned - B, C, and D - are not the primary reasons why children are more vulnerable to the effects of ionizing radiation.
The correct answer is A. Children have many growing cells that can easily have DNA damaged.
Children are more susceptible to the effects of ionizing radiation compared to adults due to several factors. One key factor is the higher rate of cell division and growth happening in their bodies. The DNA in rapidly dividing cells is more vulnerable to damage from radiation, as it can directly interact with and alter the genetic material within the cells. As children undergo rapid development, their bodies are rapidly producing new cells, including cells in vital organs and tissues.
Therefore, when children are exposed to ionizing radiation, their growing cells have an increased risk of DNA damage, which can result in various health effects, including an increased risk of developing cancer later in life. In contrast, adults have a lower rate of cell division and growth, making their cells relatively less susceptible to radiation-induced damage.
To determine this answer, one can consider the knowledge of how ionizing radiation interacts with cells and DNA. Additionally, understanding the differences in cell division rates between children and adults can provide insights into why children are more susceptible to the effects of ionizing radiation.