What does Radon Smell like?
- Written by: Kate Holder
- Category: Uncategorized
- Published: October 13, 2021
Radon is a radioactive gas and it does not have a smell. Radon is a colorless gas. However, radon can become visible when its very cold , the gas can become liquid if you freeze it to -79.2F. Moreover, it starts growing with a soft yellow light that becomes orange-red at temperature -319F.
In late the 80s , after many studies of radon gases exposure in the mines where it accumulates a lot, radon became recognized as a serious health hazard. In many states, it is illegal to sell a house without radon testing results disclosure to the new buyer. radon gas can easily accumulate in the air of poorly ventilated houses, in the basements to be more specific due to its weight. It is 7.5 times heavier than air. Exposure to this radioactive gas is dangerous. For many years, you greatly increase the risk of developing cancer, and damaging lung DNA. Radon is an unstable gas, it breaks down every 3.8 days and emits alpha radiation.
Alpha: A particle made up of two protons and two neutrons that flies out of the nucleus
of an atom at about 50% the speed of light.
• Very damaging due to mass and speed!
Alpha particles are released when radon and two of its decay products (Polonium 218 and 214)
decay.
Key Points to Remember!
• The concern of radon exposure is because it produces Ionizing Radiation.
