Ionizing

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 the orbit of an atom causes the atom to become charged or ionized.

Types of Ionizing Radiation

Ionizing radiation comes in three flavors: alpha particles, beta particles and gamma rays.

• Alpha particles are the least penetrating. They can be stopped (or absorbed) by a sheet of paper or by human skin. If alpha-emitting isotopes are inground or inhaled, they can be dangerous.

• Beta particles are more penetrating than alpha particles. They can pass through the skin, but they can be stopped by a sheet of aluminum foil. Beta particles can also be harmful if ingested or inhaled.

• Gamma rays are the most penetrating of all three. They can easily penetrate most materials and are sometimes used in medical applications. Gamma rays can be harmful to human beings.

Effects of Ionizing Radiation

Ionizing radiation can damage living tissue in the human body. It strips away electrons from atoms breaks some chemical bonds. A low exposure of ionizing radiation can cause slight cellular damage which can be repaired by the body. However, a high exposure can cause severe damage that can lead to illness or death.

Protection from Ionizing Radiation

Protection from ionizing radiation is a simple matter of shielding, distance and time.

• Shielding: The effectiveness of a material in shielding radiation depends on the type of radiation and the density of the shielding material.

• Distance: The intensity of radiation decreases with distance from the source.

• Time: Minimizing time spent near the radiation source reduces the amount of radiation a person will receive.

See Also

• Radiation therapy
• Radiation poisoning
• Radiation protection
• Nuclear power

Ionizing Resources
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