Radiation is a form of energy. Radiation is generally divided into two types:
- Non-ionizing radiation like heat and light from the sun.
- Ionizing radiation like radiation from natural radioactive materials or cosmic rays.
We are continuously exposed to both types of radiation throughout our lives.
Non-ionizing radiation
Non-ionizing radiation is of low energy and not a health hazard. Many everyday products use non-ionizing radiation:
- Televisions.
- Radios.
- Microwave ovens.
Ionizing radiation
Ionizing radiation is of high energy and can be a health hazard. When ionizing radiation passes through a substance, energy can be transferred to the substance’s atoms, which can damage them. This process is called ionization. Some examples of ionizing radiation include:
- Ultraviolet radiation.
- X rays.
- Gamma rays.
- Cosmic rays.