Ground Up: Teacher Answer Key
1.	How does radon move up through rock and soil?
Students should find that radon can move through porous or permeable rocks, spaces
between rocks and gravel, and cracks in rocks and soil. Sandstone tends to be permeable, and
uranium is generally found in sandstone deposits.
2.	Examine the rock and soil samples that are representative of the local geology. Which rock and
soil types might slow or block radon's movement?
Students should find that radon may be blocked by less permeable rock and soil types like
clay, slate and granite. Radon that is trapped in the soil will decay to form lead.
3.	How might ground water or the moisture content of soil affect radon's movement?
Students should conclude that ground water or moist soils slows down radon movement.
A rn* United States	RadTown Radon Activity Set	EPA402-B-19-052
Environmental Protection
#* Agency	https://www.EPA.gov/RadTown/Activity-l-Ground

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