Chapter 8: Problem 24

Aircraft equipped with powerful radar units are forbidden from turning them on when on the ground near people. Explain why this is so.

Short Answer

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Answer: Aircraft with powerful radar units are prohibited from turning them on when on the ground near people to prevent potential harm caused by high levels of radio frequency (RF) radiation. High levels of RF radiation can cause thermal injury such as burns or cataracts in the eyes. This measure is taken to protect individuals from these harmful effects, ensuring their safety and well-being.

Step by step solution

Understand the function of radar units

Radar units are electromagnetic systems used for detecting and locating objects such as other aircraft, ships, or even weather systems. They emit radio waves that bounce off objects, and by analyzing the time it takes for the wave to return and the direction from which it comes, the position and distance of the object can be determined.

Learn about the radiation produced by radar units

Radar units emit radio frequency (RF) energy, a type of non-ionizing radiation. RF radiation is different from ionizing radiation like X-rays, which can strip electrons from atoms and pose a high risk of tissue damage and cancer. However, higher levels of non-ionizing radiation can still cause harm to human tissue, particularly through heating.

Understand the dangers of radio frequency radiation

While non-ionizing RF radiation does not have enough energy to remove electrons from atoms or molecules, it can interact with the body's tissues and cause health issues. One significant effect is the heating of tissue, primarily in the skin and eyes. High levels of RF radiation can cause a thermal injury such as a burn or cataracts in the eyes.

Recognize the potential harm caused by powerful radar units

Powerful radar units can emit high levels of RF radiation, which can be harmful to nearby individuals. These radar units can generate much higher levels of RF radiation than smaller, everyday devices like cell phones or Wi-Fi routers. When the radar systems are turned on near people, there is an increased risk of exposure to this radiation, leading to potential harm.

Conclude the reason for the prohibition

To prevent potential harm to individuals due to high levels of RF radiation, aircraft equipped with powerful radar units are forbidden from turning them on when on the ground near people. This measure is taken to protect people from harmful effects such as thermal injury, ensuring their safety and well-being.

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Aircraft equipped with powerful radar units are forbidden from turning them on when on the ground near people. Explain why this is so.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understand the function of radar units

Learn about the radiation produced by radar units

Understand the dangers of radio frequency radiation

Recognize the potential harm caused by powerful radar units

Conclude the reason for the prohibition

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