Energy that travels through space or matter in the form of waves or particles.
Radiation occurs naturally in the environment and is also produced by many technologies. It includes electromagnetic radiation, such as radio waves, visible light, ultraviolet radiation, X-rays, and gamma rays, as well as particle radiation.
Radiation differs greatly in its properties and effects. Some forms, such as radio waves and visible light, do not have enough energy to ionize atoms, while others, such as X-rays and gamma rays, are ionizing radiation and can damage biological tissue.
QUICK FACT
Radiation is not synonymous with danger. Whether radiation is harmful depends on its type, intensity, duration of exposure, and other factors.
COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH
- Ionizing radiation: radiation with enough energy to remove electrons from atoms or molecules.
- Radiation therapy: a medical treatment that deliberately uses ionizing radiation to damage cancer cells or, in some situations, other abnormal tissue.
SEE ALSO
- Ionizing Radiation
- X-ray
- Radiation Therapy
- CT Scan