What is the biological effect of neutron radiation?

Neutron radiation has a unique interaction with matter, which makes it particularly damaging to biological tissues. When neutrons collide with atoms in the body, they can cause ionization indirectly, leading to significant cellular and DNA damage. This is due to the high mass and neutral charge of neutrons, allowing them to penetrate tissues more deeply than other forms of radiation, such as alpha or beta particles.

The biological effects of neutron radiation include the potential to cause mutations in DNA, disrupt cellular functions, and even lead to cell death. This is significant because the impact on DNA can lead to long-term repercussions, including cancer. As such, it is crucial to understand that neutron radiation poses a serious risk to living organisms, making adequate protective measures essential in environments where such radiation is present.