Reply #20: Comparing the 'radiation' of an atomic bomb [View All]

[muriel_volestrangler]

to that from DU is meaningless.

A bomb produces an intense flash of gamma (electromagnetic) and neutron radiation. DU produces, very slowly (that's why it has a long half life) alpha particle radiation. Alpha particles are very ionising (which means they have a large effect on both live cells and radiation counters), but have very small penetration (eg a piece of paper, or the dead outer layer of your skin, can stop them).

There may be problems due to ingestion of DU dust from unwashed hands. But comparing it to the effects of nuclear bombs is pointless - it should be compared to the effect of ingesting normal soil.