# A surgeon uses gamma rays to treat a patient's tumour. A security officer at an airport uses X-rays to scan luggage. Explain why both gamma rays and X-rays are able to cause harm to living cells, and state one use of microwaves, including the specific hazard microwaves pose to the human body.

> Edexcel GCSE Physics (1PH0) — 5.1 Light and the electromagnetic spectrum · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Gamma rays and X-rays have high frequency (and therefore high energy)
2. This high energy causes mutation or damage to cells / can cause cancer
3. A correct use of microwaves stated (e.g. cooking food / satellite communications)
4. Microwaves cause internal heating of body cells

## Key terms

- [gamma rays](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/gamma-rays)
- [X-rays](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/x-rays)
- [microwaves](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/microwaves)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Edexcel GCSE Physics (1PH0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/a-surgeon-uses-gamma-rays-to-899ee689) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.