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The diagram shows various forms of radiation that are part of the electromagnetic spectrum - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 20 - 2003 - Paper 1
Question 20
The diagram shows various forms of radiation that are part of the electromagnetic spectrum. (a) Select ONE form of radiation that is considered to be a mutagen. (b... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The diagram shows various forms of radiation that are part of the electromagnetic spectrum - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 20 - 2003 - Paper 1
Step 1
Step 2
Describe evidence that supports the mutagenic nature of the selected form of radiation.
Answer
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is known to cause direct DNA damage in skin cells, leading to mutations. For example, it can result in the formation of pyrimidine dimers, which disrupt normal DNA replication and repair processes. This damage increases the risk of skin cancers, including melanoma and non-melanoma types. Several epidemiological studies have linked high UV exposure to elevated incidences of skin cancer, providing strong evidence of its mutagenic effects.