Life and Death Rays
Radioactive Poisoning and Radiation Exposure
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Taylor & Francis Ltd
Published:6th Jul '21
Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back
This paperback is available in another edition too:
- Hardback£63.99(9780367463366)
This unique book provides an accessible introduction to both the scientific background and the key people involved in the discovery and use of radiation and radioactivity. It begins by providing a short history of radiation exposures and radiation poisoning; from the early inappropriate use of X-rays and radium cures through the misadventures of the Manhattan Project and the Chernobyl disaster, to the high-profile and deliberate poisoning of Alexander Litvinenko in London with polonium-210, which gave rise to worldwide media attention.
The chapters provide a catalogue of deliberate criminal acts, unfortunate accidents, and inadvertent radiation exposures, exploring well-known events in detail, as well as some not so well-known occurrences. It works through the topics by focusing on human stories and events and their biological impact. In addition, it covers descriptions of the beneficial uses of radiation and radioactivity.
This book can be enjoyed by any reader with a general interest in science, as well as by students and professionals within the scientific and medical communities.
Key features
- Authored by a subject area specialist who has worked in both clinical practice and academia and was involved with the national media following incidents of national and international importance
- Provides a unique human perspective into well-known and some lesser known events and a concise history of the discovery of radiation and the events that followed
- Adds scientific and medical background to a subject of high media interest <
Life and Death Rays: Radioactive Poisoning and Radiation Exposure by Alan Perkins (2022) is an in-depth exploration of radiation and radioactive poisoning. The book provides great insight into radiation’s history, science, and impact with an approach that combines technical aspects with fascinating historical stories. It explains the medical benefits of radiation and its dangers, making the book relevant to professionals in clinical toxicology, environmental health, and medical fields and general readers interested.
Overall, Life and Death Rays: Radioactive Poisoning and Radiation Exposure is a very informative and interesting book that combines aspects of history, science, and ethics in one coherent narrative. While some areas could be improved, such as further case studies and discussion of recent developments, the book remains a valuable resource for anyone interested in radiation and radioactive poisoning. With an easy-to-understand writing style and supportive illustrations, this book can be enjoyed by both general readers and professionals in related fields.
- Cacu Cacu and Elfi Rindiana, International Journal of Radiation Biology, September 2024
The imagery and compelling narratives give the book the tone of a detective novel! Alan Perkins does an excellent job of arousing the reader's curiosity, drawing them in and encouraging them to browse through the pages. Perkins' writing is engaging with a sense of wit. The book is very well-researched, referencing a wide range of sources, such as historical records, scientific papers, reports and interviews. The inclusion of numerous historical photographs of scientists, laboratories, equipment, sites and artefacts enhances the readability and contributes to the book's overall appeal and worth.
“Life and Death Rays” offers an insightful and well-rounded exploration of the history and impact of radiation and radioactivity in humanity. Alan Perkins is a master storyteller (he delivers captivating talks as well!) who promotes a profound understanding of radiation's ‘double-edged sword’ properties to both heal and harm. If you are fascinated by the history and science of radiation, radioactivity, X-rays, nuclear power, radiation poisoning, and the ethical challenges involved in employing such an extremely powerful force on humanity, then this book is for you.
- Emeritus Professor Kwan Hoong Ng, Department of Biomedical Imaging, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Physical and Engineering Sciences in Medicine, March 2025
ISBN: 9780367456498
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: 480g
246 pages