Radiation Safety Practice Exam

Which category of biological effects of ionizing radiation can potentially impact future generations?

1. Somatic

2. Acute

3. Genetic

4. Non-stochastic

The correct answer is: Genetic

The category of biological effects of ionizing radiation that can potentially impact future generations is genetic effects. This type of effect occurs when radiation causes changes to the DNA in germ cells, which are the reproductive cells (sperm and eggs). If these genetic changes are passed on to offspring, they can potentially manifest in future generations as inherited traits or diseases. In contrast, somatic effects pertain to the impact of radiation on the individual exposed, affecting their health during their lifetime without influencing their descendants. Acute effects refer to immediate health impacts resulting from high doses of radiation, such as radiation sickness, and are not related to hereditary changes. Non-stochastic effects are those that have a clear threshold and appear after a certain level of exposure, primarily impacting the individual and not future generations. Therefore, genetic effects are unique in their ability to affect generations down the line, making them significant in the context of radiation exposure and its long-term biological implications.