Explaining Air Travel Radiation: Today's Biology Lesson

In summary, today's biology lesson was about cancer and its relation to traveling by airplane. The teacher explained that the cosmic and solar radiation in the atmosphere can have an impact on passengers, which is equivalent to receiving three X-rays. The links provided give more information on cosmic rays and their effects. It is important to note that the FAA has a tool to calculate the cosmic ray exposure for airline passengers.
  • #1
DarkNess_wtc
18
0
today's biology lession

our teacher about cancer

he said that if we travell somewhere by aeroplane,

it's equal to take X-way 3 times

i don't understand why we have radiation through traveling by aeroplane

can someone explain to me, please

thank you so　much
 
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  • #3
The source being solar radiation (high energy particles (HEP) such as protons and electrons) and cosmic radiation (higher energy protons, various nuclei, and electrons), and the secondary particles from nuclear reactions between the solar and cosmic radiation (HEP) and the gas atoms in the atmosphere.

http://www2.slac.stanford.edu/vvc/cosmicrays/

http://www2.slac.stanford.edu/vvc/cosmic_rays.html

http://imagine.gsfc.nasa.gov/docs/science/know_l1/cosmic_rays.html

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/HBASE/astro/cosmic.html

http://www.srl.caltech.edu/personnel/dick/cos_encyc.html

http://www.ngdc.noaa.gov/stp/SOLAR/COSMIC_RAYS/cosmic.html (The high energy particles affect airplane passengers -- the FAA has an online cosmic ray airline flight profile calculation available.)
 
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FAQ: Explaining Air Travel Radiation: Today's Biology Lesson

What is air travel radiation?

Air travel radiation refers to the exposure to ionizing radiation that occurs during flights at high altitudes. This radiation comes from cosmic rays and is present at higher levels in the upper atmosphere, which is where airplanes fly.

How does air travel radiation affect the body?

Air travel radiation can cause damage to cells and DNA, potentially leading to health issues such as cancer. However, the amount of radiation exposure during a single flight is typically too low to cause immediate harm.

Are there any safety measures in place to protect against air travel radiation?

Yes, airlines are required to monitor radiation levels on flights and take measures to reduce exposure if necessary. Additionally, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has established guidelines and regulations to limit radiation exposure for flight crew and passengers.

How can I minimize my exposure to air travel radiation?

To minimize exposure to air travel radiation, you can choose to fly on routes that stay at lower altitudes, such as over land rather than over the ocean. You can also limit your overall time spent flying and avoid frequent air travel.

Is air travel radiation a significant concern for frequent flyers?

While the risk of immediate harm from air travel radiation is low, frequent flyers may still be at a higher risk for long-term health effects. It is important for frequent flyers to be aware of their radiation exposure and take precautions to minimize it, such as wearing sunscreen and limiting overall flying time.

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