Gundersen: Move south of equator if Unit 4 fuel pool goes dry

[mick063]

38. I don't have access to all the information

Last edited Fri May 4, 2012, 06:54 PM - Edit history (3)

Understand that we all are continuously bombarded by radiation. A large portion passes completely through us without any ill affect. We are comprised of mostly empty space. A difficult concept to wrap your head around.

There are many forms of radiation. The harmful versions are known as ionizing radiation. The process of stripping electrons from molecules.

With respect to radiological control, there are various aspects to consider depending on the event. Most concerns are easily addressed by distance from the source.

For example, fission will yield excess nuetrons that will be absorbed by other molecules in close proximity. These absorbed nuetrons will cause their new hosts to become radioactive. This is known as activation. Hence, the steel and concrete in the Fukishima storage basin is likely activated.

Another type of radiation is known as beta/gamma radiation (one is a particle, the other in the light spectrum) and is present because the fuel rods (primarily) are undergoing radioactive decay. This type of radiation travels a longer distance than nuetrons (smaller, less chance of collisions, no chance of absorption) and can penetrate dense objects. Still, with respect to Fukishima, an issue that is addressed by proximity. A person at 300 feet distance from the source should be relatively safe. Think of this exposure as similar to being shined upon by a spotlight. Not something you take internally, or other wise known as external dose.


The area of concern is contamination in the form of airborne particulate and the hazard is from some type of ingestion. Open wounds, smoking, inhalation, drinking, and eating are all forms of body entry. Some particulate will leave the body naturally. Mucus, urine, excretion, bleeding, etc.

Some isotopes are particularly difficult to excrete. Plutonium is in that category.

In summary, the affected individuals will primarily be the inhabitants of Japan. The closer to the source, the more likely the exposure.

I personally feel very safe here in North America and consider my biggest health risk (from Fukishima) would come from eating foods imported from Japan. I dislike sushi anyway.