Radiation Worksheet
Name:
Date:
The images and demonstrations represent the effects of radiation when it is absorbed by atoms
(represented by the white circles). Complete the demonstrations, record your observations and answer
the questions.
Image A: This type of radiation can
cause atoms to vibrate and move
Demonstration A:
1.	Place your hands together. Your hands represent atoms.
2.	Rub them against each other for 10 to 20 seconds.
3.	Observe and record what happens to the "atoms" and
the potential effects.
Image B: This type of radiation can
change the structure of an atom by
removing tightly bound electrons
from atoms.
Radiation
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Demonstration B:
Equipment: 8 to 10 marbles. Select one marble to represent
an atom nucleus. Select five marbles to represent electrons
that surround the atom nucleus. Select two to four marbles
to roll at the atom.
1.	Place one marble (representing the nucleus of an atom)
on a level surface.
2.	Place five marbles tightly around the "nucleus" marble.
The five marbles represent electrons. You now have a
marble atom.
3.	Roll one marble at a time at the "atom" and try to
move, or knock away, an "electron."
4.	Observe and record what happens to the atom nucleus
and the potential effects.
Questions:
1. Do Image A and Demonstration A represent the effects of non-ionizing or ionizing radiation?
Consider the effects you observed and what you know about these types of radiation in the
electromagnetic spectrum. How might this type of radiation affect our bodies?
vvEPA
United States	RadTown Radiation Exposure Activity Set	EPA 402-B-19-046
Environmental Protection
Agency	https://www.EPA.gov/RadTown/Activity-l-Tvpes-Radiation

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2. Do Image B and Demonstration B represent the effects of non-ionizing or ionizing radiation?
Consider the effects you observed and what you know about these types of radiation in the
electromagnetic spectrum. How might this type of radiation affect our bodies?
3. Why do you need to be aware of and understand the difference between non-ionizing and
ionizing radiation and their effects?
Environmental Protection RadTown Radiation Exposure Activity Set	EPA 402-B-19-0-
Agency	https://www.EPA.gov/RadTown/Activity-l-Tvpes-Radiation

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