Dirty Bomb

• 27 Oct 2022

Why in News?

• Recently, Russia intends to raise at the United Nations Security Council its accusation that Ukraine is planning a “dirty bomb” attack.

What is a Dirty Bomb?

• About:
  • A “dirty bomb” is a dispersion device containing radioactive material – possibly uranium, but more likely low-grade materials such as caesium-137 or other radioactive materials in common use.
  • It doesn't need to contain highly refined radioactive material, as is used in a nuclear bomb. Instead, it could use radioactive materials from hospitals, nuclear power stations or research laboratories.
  • This makes them much cheaper and quicker to make than nuclear weapons.
    • For Example: They can also be carried in the back of a vehicle.
• Concerns:
  • The immediate health impact would probably be limited, since most people in an affected area would be able to escape before experiencing lethal doses of radiation.
    • However, the radioactive dust and smoke spread farther away could be dangerous to health if it is inhaled. Because people cannot see, smell, feel, or taste radiation.
  • The economic damage could be massive from having to evacuate urban areas or even abandon whole cities.

Source: TH