How Radioactive Rhino Horns Could Stop Poaching
set off (something): to activate or trigger something, such as an alarm or device
Scientists in South Africa have a new idea for stopping rhino poaching. In parts of Asia, people consume rhino horn because they believe it has powerful medicinal properties. To stop this illegal practice, they are putting a small amount of radioactive material into rhino horns. This will make the horns toxic for humans and easier to find at borders. The project took place at the Limpopo rhino orphanage, where the rhinos are safe.
James Larkin, a scientist, said they put “two tiny little radioactive chips” in the horns. Another scientist, Nithaya Chetty, said the horns will become “poisonous for human consumption.” The rhinos do not feel any pain during this process, and it does not hurt their health.
In 2023, 499 rhinos were killed in South Africa. The radioactive horns will set off radiation detectors at borders, helping to stop poaching. The project hopes to protect more rhinos and save their lives.
Sample sentences
1. The loud noise set off the car alarm, and it wouldn’t stop.
2. A small fire can set off the smoke detector in your house.
3. The chemical reaction set off a loud explosion that could be heard for miles.
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Rhino horns injected with radioactive material in bid to curb poaching