Humber/Ontario Real Estate Course 3 Exam Practice

How can radon enter a home?

1. By thriving in damp areas of a building

2. Through the upper levels of a house

3. Through cracks in the basement floor and walls

4. With the flow of electricity

5. By leaking from plumbing systems

6. Through poorly sealed windows

The correct answer is: Through cracks in the basement floor and walls

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is produced from the decay of uranium found in soil and rock. This gas can enter homes predominantly through cracks in the basement floor and walls. The reason this is the primary entry point is that radon gas is denser than air, which allows it to accumulate in lower levels of buildings, particularly in basements and crawl spaces. If there are any fissures, gaps, or openings in the foundation or basement structure, radon can seep through these cracks and make its way into the living spaces of the home. This process is exacerbated by negative pressure often found in homes, especially during colder weather, where air is drawn from the ground into the building, further facilitating the entry of radon. Monitoring and mitigating radon levels is essential, as prolonged exposure to this gas can lead to serious health concerns, including lung cancer. Understanding how radon enters a home helps homeowners and potential buyers take necessary precautions and ensure proper testing and mitigation if high radon levels are detected.