What type of radiation hazard is primarily linked to ingestion or inhalation?

Alpha radiation is primarily linked to ingestion or inhalation due to its unique properties. Alpha particles consist of two protons and two neutrons, making them relatively heavy and positively charged. While alpha particles have a very limited penetration ability and can be stopped by a sheet of paper or even the outer layer of human skin, their health risks become significant when they enter the body.

When alpha-emitting materials are ingested or inhaled, they can come into close proximity to sensitive internal tissues, where they can cause cellular damage due to their high energy and mass. This can lead to serious health effects, including cancer, as the radiological damage can disrupt normal cellular functions. Therefore, monitoring and mitigating exposure to alpha radiation, especially in environments where alpha-emitting isotopes may be present, is crucial for health and safety.

In contrast, while beta radiation can also pose ingestion and inhalation hazards, its effects are generally less severe compared to alpha radiation when similarly introduced into the body. Gamma and X-ray radiation are primarily external hazards due to their penetrating abilities, necessitating different protective measures such as shielding, rather than concern over ingestion or inhalation.