What is Ionizing Radiation
There are three primary elements that are dealt with when talking about Ionizing
Radiation
Alpha Particles are relatively large and slow moving in air. They can be
stopped by as little as a piece of paper. These are the primary problem element in RADON, causing
cancer by cell destruction.
Beta Particles are smaller and move faster and farther in air, but can be
stopped by light materials like thin plywood. This element can cause chemical like burns on and in the
body.
Gamma Rays are a ray not a particle and travel indefinitely. They pass
through almost every type of material and in reality can only be reduced in strength not stopped.
Gamma radiation is what we normally associate with nuclear bombs and destroy or damage not only internal organs but our DNA and most living cellular structures as they pass through out bodies.
What is RADON
Myths and Facts
Radiation Exposure
Radon in the Environment
1990 National Council Report
[Glossary]
Nor - Environmental
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