Some people are concerned about mobile phone use because the handsets emit microwaves close to the body. The government recommends that users take reasonable steps to limit their exposure to the microwaves by following the ALARA principle. As Low As Reasonably Achievable This involves the following precautions: Using a hands-free kit or shield. Using a phone which emits less radiation. Not talking on a mobile for a long time. Under 16s only using mobiles when Why limit the use of mobile phones? essential.

Investigating microwave intensity

Could hands-free make a difference? intensity / A distance / cm x x x x x x The results of the microwave experiment can be plotted to see if there is a relationship between intensity of the radiation and distance from the source. Rachels results show that as the distance increases the intensity of the microwave radiation decreases. The results suggest that moving the mobile phone away from the head, even a few centimetres, could reduce the intensity of radiation reaching the head. How does this relate to safer use of a mobile phone?

Reporting of mobile phone risks