Dirty Bombs
A common type of RDD is what is called a “dirty bomb,” which is designed to spread radioactive material through passive (aerosol) or active (explosive) means. The latter
typically combines conventional explosives, such as dynamite, with radioactive material. The terms “dirty bomb” and “RDD” are often used interchangeably, although
the former is a much broader term. Some types of RDDs do not use explosives.
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Sample Answer
A dirty bomb is a radiological dispersal device (RDD) that combines conventional explosives with radioactive material. The conventional explosives are used to disperse the radioactive material, which can cause widespread contamination and panic.
The latter, or active, type of dirty bomb uses an explosive to disperse the radioactive material. This can cause more widespread contamination and damage than a passive dirty bomb.
The amount of damage caused by a dirty bomb depends on a number of factors, including the type and amount of radioactive material used, the size of the explosion, and the proximity of people and buildings to the explosion.