There are several types of radiation, which can be broadly categorized into two main groups: ionizing radiation and non-ionizing radiation.
- ☢️Ionizing radiation:
This type of radiation has enough energy to remove electrons from atoms, forming charged particles called ions. Examples of ionizing radiation include:
- X-rays : High-energy electromagnetic radiation that can penetrate through body tissues and create images of bones and internal organs.
- Gamma rays: High-energy electromagnetic radiation emitted by radioactive materials and nuclear reactions.
- Alpha particles: Positively charged particles consisting of two protons and two neutrons, which are emitted by certain radioactive materials.
- Beta particles: High-speed electrons or positrons, which are emitted by certain radioactive materials.
- Neutrons: Uncharged particles found in the nucleus of atoms, which can be emitted by certain radioactive materials.
- 🔘Non-ionizing radiation:
This type of radiation does not have enough energy to remove electrons from atoms. Examples of non-ionizing radiation include:
- 📻Radio waves: Low-energy electromagnetic radiation used in telecommunications, such as radio and TV signals.
- 🇫🇲 Microwaves: Electromagnetic radiation used in microwave ovens and in telecommunications.
- Infrared radiation: Electromagnetic radiation that produces heat, such as from the sun or from heaters.
- Visible light: Electromagnetic radiation that can be seen by the human eye.
- Ultraviolet (UV) radiation: Electromagnetic radiation that is not visible to the human eye, but can cause sunburn and skin damage.
- Extremely low frequency (ELF) radiation: Electromagnetic radiation with frequencies below 300 hertz, which is emitted by power lines and electrical appliances.
Electromagnetic fields (EMFs): Fields of force created by electrically charged objects or moving electrical charges, which can be produced by electronic devices such as cell phones and Wi-Fi routers.
