Biological effects of the use of dirty bombs - Essay Example

The purpose of this report is to comprehensively examine these effects by assessing relevant scientific studies, researches and literature. Introduction As stated in the preceding section of the report, the focus of this assessment is directed towards conducting an analysis of the biological effects of the use of dirty bombs that are a type of a radiological dispersal device (RDD) which also incorporates the detonation of conventional explosives. The discussion topics that have been identified as primary and key considerations of this report include 1) an introduction to dirty bombs as a type of RDD 2) examination of the use of dirty bombs by military armies 3) identification of the determinants that govern the extent or degree of biological impact of dirty bomb detonation 4) assessment of an organism’s biological response to the detonation of dirty bombs and 5) the biological effects of the use of dirty bombs. . he quantity and kinds of physical damage linked with the detonation of a dirty bomb would be comparable to that of an attack which is conducted by devices or bombs that are not radioactive in nature (Horoho 224).

While, this statement postulates that the impact or effects of a dirty bomb are similar to that of a conventional bomb, the fundamental distinction in this case is that the detonation of a dirty bomb, as a radiological dispersal device (RDD) would result in the likelihood of victims and rescuers coming into contact with radioactive materials by the means of inhalation or through the embedment of radioactive materials in the injured party (Horoho 224). Thus, Lifshitz understands that the adverse effects of dirty bombs can be categorized on the basis of the direct impact of the explosion and the consequences that the victims may experience as a result of being exposed to radiation (710).

The military application of dirty bombs involves their utilization as bunker busters in order to break through fortified targets or targets that are present in underground compounds. Even though, the detonation of dirty bombs has proven to be effective in this regard the key issue of concern is linked with the harmful dispersal of radiation that is caused by the explosion which has the ability to adversely impact indigenous peoples. According to Lifshitz, the extent of the impact of a dirty bomb explosion on the victims can be viewed on a scale which constitutes of high-level radiation and low-level radiation (710).

The impact of high-level radiation comprises of the onset of severe illness and radiation sickness, which emerge in a brief period ranging from days to weeks and can be identified as the cause of victim’s death, in most cases (Lifshitz 710). On the contrary, low