# Electromagnetic waves can be harmful to the human body. Explain how three different types of electromagnetic radiation can cause harm, and for each one state a use that benefits society despite this risk.

> WJEC A-Level Physics (Wales) — 6.2 Particle physics and the standard model (A-Level only) · Explain · 5 marks

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Gamma rays can cause cell damage / mutations (1 mark)
2. Gamma rays are used to detect or treat cancers / sterilise food or medical equipment (1 mark)
3. Ultraviolet radiation can cause cell damage / eye damage / skin cancer / eye conditions (1 mark)
4. Ultraviolet is used in energy efficient lamps / disinfecting water / sun tanning (1 mark)
5. X-rays / microwaves / infrared can cause a named harm AND a named use correctly matched (1 mark — must have both harm and use correct for this wave type)

## Key terms

- [electromagnetic radiation](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/electromagnetic-radiation)

## Related

- [Revision notes for WJEC A-Level Physics (Wales)](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/electromagnetic-waves-can-be-harmful-to-81660605) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.