71. Which of the following statements about airborne radon is true?
Answer: C
It is inexpensively detected and mitigated.
Airborne radon can be detected and mitigated through relatively low-cost methods, making option C the most accurate statement regarding this hazardous gas.
A) It has an easily detectable odor.
This statement is incorrect because radon is a colorless, odorless gas, meaning it cannot be detected through smell. This characteristic is a key reason why radon testing is necessary to determine its presence in the environment.
B) It is only found in older wood frame structures.
This option is misleading as radon can be found in various types of buildings, regardless of the age or construction material. It is not limited to older wood frame structures; rather, it can accumulate in any home or building where conditions allow.
C) It is inexpensively detected and mitigated.
This statement is true. Radon detection kits are affordable and widely available, and mitigation systems can be installed at a reasonable cost, making it feasible for homeowners to address radon issues effectively.
D) It is not harmful to adults who do not smoke.
This statement is incorrect. Regardless of smoking status, radon exposure poses health risks, including lung cancer, even to non-smokers. Therefore, all individuals should be aware of radon levels in their homes.
Conclusion
Option C is definitively correct as it accurately reflects the affordability and feasibility of detecting and mitigating airborne radon. The other options fail because they either misrepresent the characteristics of radon or underestimate its health risks, underscoring the importance of awareness and testing for this environmental hazard.