Radiant energy- energy produced X-rays and Gamma rays: high

by nuclear reactions - sun. Also energy parts of EM spec

known as Electromagnetic Alpha particles: 2 protons 2
radiation. neutrons
Beta particles: fast moving
Less energy = less effects electrons
Longer exposure = more effects Cosmic Radiation: from the outer
space
Particles: atoms, electrons, ions, Neutrons: from nuclear power
protons, neutrons plants
Wave: sound, light
Sources of Ionizing radiation
Radiation can be man made or - human activities
natural. - nuclear power plant
- natural sources
Radon is a radioactive gas from - medical procedures
uranium found in soil. Can also be
found in water, food, earth’s crust. Effects of radiation: cataracts,
Etc. It is an example of natural or skin cancer or glaucoma, sickness,
background radiation or death

Examples of manmade radiation Stochastic effects: possibility of

are nuclear medicine, tv, tobacco, effect is based on the dose. Ex.
etc. skin cancer, genetic mutation

Radiation is created when the Non stochastic effects: severity of

state of an atom changes effect based on the dose. Ex.
cataracts, skin burns
Radioactive decay is when an
unstable atom changes to be a
more stable one.

Half life is the time it takes for half

of the atom to decay

Ionizing Radiation can create

electrically charged ions. It breaks
molecules and atoms which can
cause DNA damage or genetic
mutations

Forms of Ionizing radiation