What effect does radiation have on living cells?

Radiation can indeed cause damage or alteration to DNA within living cells. This occurs because radiation, particularly ionizing radiation, has enough energy to disrupt molecular structures, especially the delicate double helix of DNA. When DNA is damaged, it can lead to mutations, which may affect cell function and can sometimes result in cancer or other health issues as it interferes with the normal processes of the cell.

This explanation highlights the potential dangers of radiation exposure and its impact on the genetic material of the cell. Understanding how radiation interacts with DNA is crucial in fields such as oncology and radiation therapy, where managing exposure is essential for minimizing harmful effects while potentially treating cancer.