The Question is from neet-chemistry classification-of-elements , and it was created by the author A.RAMA NAGESWARARAO

Question

Which statement best explains why radon is considered a health hazard?

A.RAMA NAGESWARARAO · Accepted Answer

## CORE INFORMATION
✓ **Answer**: C
## CONCEPT FRAMEWORK
 **Primary Concept**: Radioactivity and its health effects
 **Related Topics**: Alpha radiation, decay chains, ionizing radiation
 **Prerequisites**: Basic understanding of atomic structure and radioactivity.
## SOLUTION PATHWAY
**Given Information**:
  The question asks about the health hazard posed by radon.
  Options describe different potential hazards.
**Method & Steps**:
 1. Analyze each option to determine its validity.
  Reasoning: We need to identify the primary reason why radon is dangerous to human health.
  Formula/Rule: None directly applicable, this is a conceptual question.
 2. Evaluate option C: Radon is radioactive and can decay into harmful alpha particles.
  Working: Radon is a radioactive gas that undergoes radioactive decay.  One of its decay products is alpha particles. Alpha particles are highly ionizing, meaning they readily interact with biological molecules, causing damage to DNA and potentially leading to cancer.
  Key Point: The high ionizing power of alpha particles makes them particularly dangerous when inhaled.
 3. Evaluate the remaining options:
  Option A is incorrect because while radon can react, its primary hazard is its radioactivity.
  Option B is incorrect because radon is not primarily a greenhouse gas.  Its contribution to climate change is negligible compared to other gases.
  Option D is incorrect because radon does not displace oxygen in significant quantities to cause asphyxiation.
  Result: Option C correctly identifies the primary health hazard of radon.
  Verification: The statement aligns with established scientific knowledge about the health effects of radon exposure.
 ## OPTION ANALYSIS
A :x: Radon's reactivity is not its main health concern.  Its radioactivity is the key factor.
B :x: Radon's contribution to climate change is insignificant compared to its radiological hazard.
C ✓: This option accurately describes the primary health risk associated with radon exposure.  Radon's radioactive decay produces alpha particles, which are highly ionizing and can cause significant damage to cells.
D :x: Radon does not cause asphyxiation; its health hazard stems from its radioactivity.
 ## LEARNING AIDS
 **Common Mistakes**:
  1.Confusing radon's chemical properties with its radiological properties:  Radon's reactivity is less significant than its radioactivity in terms of health risks.
  2.Overlooking the importance of alpha particles:  The ionizing power of alpha particles is crucial to understanding radon's toxicity.
 **Quick Tips**:
  1.Remember that radioactive decay produces ionizing radiation, which damages living cells.
  2.Alpha particles are highly ionizing and therefore very damaging to living tissue.

A.RAMA NAGESWARARAO · Answer

Radon is highly reactive and forms toxic compounds.

A.RAMA NAGESWARARAO · Answer

Radon is a potent greenhouse gas contributing to climate change.

A.RAMA NAGESWARARAO · Answer

The correct Option is "Radon is radioactive and can decay into harmful alpha particles."

A.RAMA NAGESWARARAO · Answer

Radon displaces oxygen in the atmosphere, leading to asphyxiation.

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