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Ionizing radiation comes from these main sources: Nuclear reactions in the Earth’s sun and stars in space. Radioactive decay in the body’s tissues and in the soil. Radioactive decay of unstable elements in rocks, especially rocks that contain radium and release radon gas.
Ionizing radiation, flow of energy in the form of atomic and subatomic particles or electromagnetic waves that is capable of freeing electrons from an atom, causing the atom to become charged (or ionized).
A familiar example of ionizing radiation is that of x-rays, which can penetrate our body and reveal pictures of our bones. We say that x-rays are "ionizing," meaning that they have the unique capability to remove electrons from atoms and molecules.
Cosmic rays and the decay of radioactive isotopes are the primary sources of natural ionizing radiation on Earth, contributing to background radiation. Ionizing radiation is also generated artificially by X-ray tubes, particle accelerators, and nuclear fission.
Ionizing radiation can remove electrons from the atoms, i.e. it can ionize atoms. Energy emitted from a source is generally referred to as radiation. Examples include heat or light from the sun, microwaves from an oven, X rays from an X-ray tube and gamma rays from radioactive elements.
Ionizing radiation is a type of energy released by atoms in the form of electromagnetic waves or particles. People are exposed to natural sources of ionizing radiation, such as in soil, water, and vegetation, as well as in human-made sources, such as x-rays in medical devices.
Learning Objectives. Qualitatively compare the ionizing and penetration power of alpha particles (α), beta particles (β), and gamma rays (γ). Describe the biological impact of ionizing radiation. Know the most common source of background radiation and how to minimize exposure to this source.