List one example of a biological effect of radiation exposure.

One significant biological effect of radiation exposure is DNA damage leading to mutation or cancer. Ionizing radiation, such as that from X-rays or radioactive materials, has enough energy to remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, resulting in the disruption of molecular structures. When this radiation interacts with DNA, it can cause breaks in the strands or alter the chemical structure of the DNA bases. These changes can lead to errors in the DNA replication process, potentially resulting in mutations.

If the mutations occur in critical genes that control cell growth and division, they can lead to unregulated cell proliferation, a hallmark of cancer development. Over time, cumulative exposure to radiation increases the risk of such genetic alterations, underscoring the importance of minimizing unnecessary radiation exposure in medical and occupational settings. This biological effect highlights the serious long-term consequences that radiation can impose on living organisms at the cellular level.