Ultraviolet radiation and X-rays are both part of the electromagnetic spectrum. Compare the hazards associated with exposure to these two types of radiation, and state one precaution that can be taken to reduce the risk from each.

Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Physics (4PH1) — 3.2 The electromagnetic spectrum · Compare · 4 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Model answer (4 marks)

Ultraviolet radiation can damage skin cells and cause skin cancer, and it can also damage the eyes, potentially leading to blindness.
X‑rays are ionising radiation that can damage DNA, causing mutations that may lead to cancer.
A precaution against UV exposure is wearing sun cream or protective clothing.
A precaution against X‑ray exposure is using lead shielding or minimising the time spent in the beam.

Examiner tips

  • Use the word ‘compare’ to link the two hazards; show the difference in type of damage. Give one specific precaution for each type of radiation. Use the exact terminology: ‘ionising radiation’, ‘mutations’, ‘skin cancer’, ‘lead shielding’.
  • common_mistakes
  • :
  • Mixing up the hazards (e.g. saying X‑rays cause skin cancer only). Listing two precautions for one radiation type. Using vague terms like ‘protective gear’ instead of ‘lead shielding’ or ‘sun cream’.

Mark scheme (4 marks)

  1. Ultraviolet radiation can cause skin cancer (or cell damage / eye damage / blindness)
  2. A precaution against ultraviolet exposure: wearing sun cream OR wearing sunglasses
  3. X-rays are ionising radiation that can cause mutations (leading to cancer)
  4. A precaution against X-ray exposure: using lead / dense material shielding OR minimising exposure time

Key terms in this question

ultraviolet · X-rays · electromagnetic spectrum

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