Radiation in Our Daily Life
Radiation is part of our natural environment.
We are exposed to cosmic rays, soil radiation, and medical sources.
Understanding radiation helps us use it safely and benefit from it in medicine
and technology.
Introduction: What Is Radiation?
Energy Definition Natural or Artificial Everywhere Around Us
Radiation = energy that travels in Can be natural (like sunlight) or Found everywhere 4 medicine,
waves or particles. artificial (like X-rays). communication, and daily life.
Two Main Types of
Radiation
Ionizing Radiation Non-Ionizing Radiation
High energy, can remove electrons Low energy, cannot ionize atoms.
from atoms.
Knowing the difference helps us use radiation safely and effectively.
Ionizing Radiation: Definition
High Energy Power Atomic Impact Careful Handling
Has enough energy to ionize atoms Can alter atomic structure and affect Required
(remove electrons). body cells. Must be used carefully to prevent
biological harm.
Ionizing Radiation: Examples & Uses
Examples:
X-rays 3 for medical imaging.
Gamma rays 3 for cancer treatment.
Alpha & Beta particles 3 from radioactive materials.
Uses:
Diagnosis, therapy, and sterilization in medicine.
Ionizing Radiation: Safety
High exposure may cause cell damage or genetic mutations.
Protection Methods:
Use Lead Protection Maintain Distance & Follow Protocols
Use lead aprons and shields. Time Always follow radiation safety
Maintain proper distance and protocols.
minimal exposure time.
Non-Ionizing Radiation:
Definition
Lower Energy Level Thermal Effects
Has lower energy, cannot Effects are mainly thermal
remove electrons from atoms. (heating tissues).
No DNA Alteration
Does not alter DNA or atomic structure.
Non-Ionizing Radiation: Examples & Uses
Examples:
Ultraviolet (UV), Infrared (IR), Microwaves, Radio/TV waves, Wi-Fi.
Uses:
In daily life: phones, lasers, remote controls, and therapy devices.
Safety Note: Safe when used properly, but long exposure may cause skin or eye irritation.
Comparison: Ionizing vs Non-Ionizing
Feature Ionizing Radiation Non-Ionizing Radiation
Energy High Low
Effect Can damage atoms/DNA Causes heating only
Applications Medicine, industry Communication, electronics
Safety Requires strong protection Safe if exposure is controlled
Conclusion
Double-Edged Sword Ionizing Radiation
Radiation is powerful but Vital in medicine, but needs
potentially dangerous. strict protection.
Non-Ionizing Radiation
Widely used, generally safe with limits.
Key Message: Use radiation wisely and
responsibly to maximize benefits and
minimize risk.