Primordial Radionuclides

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Abstract
Volumes of data regarding the static and dynamic distribution of primordial radionuclides and their possible effect on biota are scattered through the literature of a number of disciplines. This paper briefly summarizes the world-wide distribution of these naturally occurring radioactive materials and provides a more detailed account of their occurrence and movement within specific ecosystems. General pathways of nuclide distribution and sites of concentration are pictured by tracing radioactive substances from the long-lived primary material to the inactive end product. This tracing includes major environmental and biological transport mechanisms to which radionuclides are subjected during the course of their life span. Thus, the biology of these naturally occurring nuclides is reviewed. The ecological life history of various plants and animals are outlined and the radiosensitivity of the various stages are considered. Where stages of high radiosensitivity are coincidental with exposure to relatively high levels of background radiation, possible biological effects are discussed. Special attention is given to the interaction of ionizing radiation with other environmental stresses.

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