Ionizing Radiation

Ionizing radiation is a type of energy released by atoms that travels in the form of electromagnetic waves (gamma or X-rays) or particles (neutrons, beta or alpha). The ability of ionizing radiation to displace or remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, thus creating ions, is the reason for its name. High levels of ionizing radiation can cause serious damage to living tissue, and can result in radiation sickness, cancer, and death.

Types of Ionizing Radiation

Ionizing radiation can be categorized into two types: non-particulate and particulate.

Non-particulate Ionizing Radiation

Non-particulate ionizing radiation consists of electromagnetic waves. The most common types are X-rays and gamma rays. These rays have enough energy to ionize atoms by removing tightly bound electrons.

Particulate Ionizing Radiation

Particulate ionizing radiation consists of subatomic particles that have mass and energy. This category includes alpha particles, beta particles, and neutrons. These particles can cause ionization by directly colliding with the electrons of atoms.

Effects of Ionizing Radiation

Ionizing radiation can have both beneficial and harmful effects. In medicine, it is used in radiation therapy to treat cancer. However, exposure to high levels of ionizing radiation can lead to radiation sickness, cancer, and death.

Protection from Ionizing Radiation

Protection from ionizing radiation is based on the principles of time, distance, and shielding. Reducing the time of exposure, increasing the distance from the source of radiation, and using shielding materials can significantly reduce the dose of ionizing radiation.

See Also

• Radiation therapy
• Radiation sickness
• Alpha particles
• Beta particles
• Gamma rays
• X-rays
• Neutrons

Ionizing Radiation Resources
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