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Technological Hazard >> Radiation hazard >>Radiation sources, natural and artificial radiation
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Nature of radioactivity, types of radiation Interaction radiation with matter Radiation sources, natural and artificial radiation |
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, gamma
rays, and x rays. The primary radioactive elements Man-made
Radiation
Radiation
is used in medicine, military, and industry. Main
users of manmade radiation include: Many of these facilities generate some radioactive waste; and some release a controlled amount of radiation into the environment. Radioactive materials are also used in common consumer products such as digital and luminous-dial wristwatches, ceramic glazes, artificial teeth, and smoke detectors. Consequences of nuclear tests and radiological accidents are also sources of man-made radiation.
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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
production as part of their normal operation.