Which of the following is a primary hazard associated with inhaling beta particles?

Inhaling beta particles primarily poses a risk for radiation sickness. Beta particles, which are high-energy electrons emitted from radioactive decay, can cause significant biological damage when they penetrate body tissues, particularly the lungs where inhalation occurs. This damage results from ionization of atoms within the cells, leading to disruption of cellular processes and potential cell death.

Radiation sickness can manifest with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and damage to bone marrow, which affects the body's ability to produce blood cells. The severity of radiation sickness depends on the dose received; higher doses can lead to more severe health effects. Therefore, understanding the impact of beta particle exposure is crucial in emergency response scenarios related to hazardous materials and radiation.

The other options relate to effects that are typically caused by other agents. Physical trauma involves injury from blunt or sharp objects; chemical burns result from contact with corrosive substances; and thermal injuries emerge from exposure to extreme heat sources. While these are valid concerns in various hazardous scenarios, they do not directly relate to the inhalation of beta particles.