Some calculations on radioactive fallout with especial reference to the secular variations in potential gradient at Eskdalemuir, Scotland

Abstract

From a study of the variations in potential gradient at Eskdalemuir, Scotland, it is shown that the radioactivity there has roughly doubled during the past six years; in other words, a radioactive contamination equal in activity to the natural background has occurred. Calculations indicate that only some 2% of this contamination can be ascribed to world-wide fall-out following thermonuclear explosions; the remainder must have been generated locally. The obvious sources are the atomic stations — notably Windscale — in Cumberland, and it is considered that, apart from the accident in October 1957, Windscale has leaked radioactive material ever since it first came into operation. The resultant contamination is very considerable and its relation to danger levels is discussed.