10.4 exposure to electromagnetic radiation

brochure layout:

summary + precautions (4)	works cited	(first page) title + introduction
effects of EM in living cells: [device of concern] (3)	common devices that give off EM (2)	low vs high frequency (1)

introduction

Electricity is the foundation of the modern world— it makes everyday tasks more efficient, and has greatly shaped our way of life. But what if it posed a greater risk to us?

low vs high frequency comparison

Electricity is the movement of an electric charge, which generates electric and magnetic fields that are perpendicular to one another and carry energy
- This phenomenon is known as electromagnetic radiation

Different parts of the EM spectrum correspond to different types of radiation, many of which are harmless, or non-ionizing

However, radiation with very short wavelengths such as gamma rays or X-rays are ionizing, which means they have the ability to rip electrons out of their atoms, which can denature genetic material and can cause burns

Source: The Electromagnetic Spectrum, NASA, 2017

	Ultraviolet rays	AM Radio waves
Frequency	$10^{15}-10^{17}$ Hz	$10^6-10^7$ Hz
Wavelength	$10^{-9} -10^{-7}$ m	$10-10^2$m
Energy	$1.6*10^{-17}$ J	$2*10^{-24}$ J
Ionizing ability	Moderate ionizing ability	Non-ionizing radiation

common devices that give off EM

We are constantly surrounded by natural and harmless sources of electromagnetic radiation
- For example, the warmth we feel on a nice day is electromagnetic infrared radiation from the sun

After the Industrial Revolution, we have added more EM to our immediate surroundings, which include:

External heating unit in the home gives off infrared radiation
Wifi routers
Electric power lines
Microwaves push the water molecules in food around, allowing for the heating of food
Household appliances (e.g washing machine)