What effect can alpha particles have if ingested or inhaled?

Alpha particles can cause severe internal damage when ingested or inhaled due to their high mass and charge, which allows them to deposit a significant amount of energy over a very short distance. While alpha particles can be stopped by a sheet of paper or even the outer layer of human skin, their destructive potential is most pronounced when they are internalized.

Once inside the body, alpha particles interact with biological tissues and can cause ionization of molecules, leading to the destruction of DNA and cellular structures. This can result in mutations, cell death, and the subsequent development of cancers and other serious health effects. The localized dose of radiation delivered by alpha particles is particularly damaging because it can directly affect proximate cells, leading to acute and chronic health issues.

Thus, the significant damage caused by alpha particles when they enter the body underscores the importance of awareness and safety measures regarding materials that emit these types of radiation.