# Explain why ultraviolet radiation, X-rays and gamma rays are considered more hazardous to the human body than radio waves and microwaves.

> AQA GCSE Physics (8463) — 4.6.2 Electromagnetic waves · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. UV, X-rays and gamma rays have higher frequency (and shorter wavelength) than radio waves and microwaves
2. X-rays and gamma rays are ionising radiation / can ionise atoms or molecules in body tissue
3. Ionising radiation / UV radiation can cause mutation of genes (in cells)
4. Radio waves and microwaves have lower frequency / lower energy so they do not ionise atoms / cause gene mutation in body tissue

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA GCSE Physics (8463)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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