Radiation & DNA

When an alpha particle hits our DNA it can cause damage to a cell´s blueprint. Cells constantly replicate themselves, but with a broken blueprint the replication process can become cancerous.

Wave-particle duality
According to particle physics, any form of radiation can behave as both a particle and as a wave depending on how you observe it. That is why an alpha particle is the same as alpha radiation.

DNA
All our cells contain DNA, which acts as an instruction manual or blueprint for cells on how to create copies of themselves.

Radioactive radiation

Radioactive radiation takes the form of alpha, beta, gamma, x-ray, and neutron radiation, which are able to penetrate different substances.

External skin: Alpha particles do not penetrate external skin because it consists of dead skin cells.

Internal tissue: Ingesting or inhaling alpha- particles is a health concern because living cells are not able to stop the radiation.

Floors

Radon usually builds up in the lowest levels of a building. However, there are some buildings that have a higher radon level in the top floors. This can be due to artificial ventilation, natural updraft, or building materials used. 

Measuring all floors can help us make healthier decisions. In most cases, it is better for our health to spend more of our time on floors with lower radon levels.

*Numbers are a joint estimate by the World Health Organization based on 3 separate studies (WHO Radon Handbook, page 12)