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Nature of radioactivity, types of radiation
Interaction radiation with
matter
Radiation sources, natural
and artificial radiation
Radiation detection
Health effects of
radiation
Regulation, legal basis
Nuclear and radiological
accidents, protection measures
Frequently Asked Questions
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 Sources of
Radiation
Natural
Radiation
Humans are primarily exposed to natural radiation
from the sun, cosmic rays, and naturally occurring radioactive elements found
in the rocks, food, environment. Radon, which emanates from the ground,
is another important source of natural radiation. Cosmic rays from space
include energetic protons, electrons, another particles, gamma rays, and x rays.
The primary radioactive elements found in the earth's crust are uranium,
thorium, and potassium, and their radioactive derivatives. These elements emit
alpha and beta particles, or gamma rays.
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Man-made
Radiation
Radiation is used in medicine, military, and
industry. Main users of manmade radiation include: medical facilities such as
hospitals and pharmaceutical facilities; research and teaching institutions;
nuclear reactors and their supporting facilities such as uranium mills and
fuel preparation plants; and facilities involved in nuclear weapons.
Many of these facilities generate radioactive waste;
and some release a controlled amount of radiation into the environment.
Radioactive materials are also used in common consumer products such as smoke
detectors. Consequences of nuclear tests and radiological accidents are
also sources of man- made radiation.
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