Microwaves

2 marks · Easy

Describe one protective measure you could take to reduce the risk from excessive exposure to microwaves, and explain how it works.

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Also accept: Use of metal screening/shielding; ensures microwaves do not leak out due to reflection/absorption; Keeping away from active microwave ovens; reduces exposure

Common mistakes: Unrelated measures (e.g., wearing sunglasses)

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Marking points

B1 · 1 mark · States a relevant protective measure (e.g., shielding with metal, using a screen, keeping safe distance).

B2 · 1 mark · Explains how that measure works to reduce risk (e.g., stops microwaves escaping, prevents tissue heating).

Worked solution

A protective measure is to install a metal mesh in the door of a microwave oven. This screen stops microwaves from escaping by reflecting them back inside the oven, preventing them from coming into contact with people and reducing the risk of tissue heating.