What is a primary danger associated with long-lived isotopes produced by nuclear fission?

• A. They are explosive.
• B. They are radioactive and can cause radiation poisoning.
• C. They are inert.
• D. They glow in the dark.

Answer: (B)

Ionizing radiation from long-lived isotopes is dangerous because it can damage living cells and DNA. When these isotopes decay, they emit radiation (such as alpha, beta, or gamma rays) that can ionize molecules in our bodies. That ionization can kill cells or cause genetic changes, leading to radiation sickness at high doses and an increased risk of cancer with long-term exposure. The longer an isotope lasts, the longer it can expose people and the environment to this harmful radiation, making the hazard persistent.

These isotopes aren’t inherently explosive, and they aren’t reliably inert or glow in the dark. The real danger comes from the radiation they emit and the potential for ongoing exposure over time.