What are the hazards of Carbon-14?
This is in my own words: Carbon-14 is only hazardous if taken into the body. Because it emits a weak beta particle which lacks gamma radiation, it cannot deeply penetrate tissue or travel very far in air. Carbon-14 behaves the same as carbon in the environment and in the human body. Therefore, large amounts that are ingested or inhaled can be absorbed in the bloodstream and then transferred to all body organs. The ionizing radiation that results from radioactive decay has the potential for subsequent cancer induction. The health hazards of carbon-14 are associated with cell damage. Precautions must be taken when handling Carbon-14. Exposure must be monitored and gloves worn. Overall, with proper precautions, Carbon-14 is a very useful isotope in our lives. It helps us learn more about the world around us as it was before we were here and also helps forward the medical field. Coincidentally, I have to do a project just like this…
