Nuclear accidents are among the most feared disasters. the radioactive materials released can contaminate land and water, making them uninhabitable for generations. one of the most dangerous radioactive materials is radioactive iodine, i-131. i-131 is produced when atoms are split in nuclear fuel rods within nuclear power plants. during a nuclear accident, i-131 may be released as a gas that settles on soil and plants and dissolves in water. people are exposed to i-131 by drinking contaminated water or eating contaminated foods. scientists have confirmed, based on data collected at the chernobyl nuclear disaster site, that prolonged exposure to i-131 leads to a) hair loss. b) thyroid cancer. c) premature aging. d) skin burns and ulcers.