Radiation Exposure and Effects

What is radiation? Where does it come from?

  To put it simply, radiation is energy that is given off by matter.  The radiation given off is basically particle at very high speeds in the form of waves.  All matter in the universe aims to become more stable.  In this process, the matter has to release energy to become more stable.  This emission of energy is what we know today as radiation.  Radiation comes from many sources in our universe.  Some of these sources are natural and some are manmade.  The natural radiation comes from different sources such as water and food or cosmic rays from outer space.  This natural form of radiation has been here since before the dawn of time, and is something that we can't get rid of.  On the other hand, manmade radiation is increasing with the population.  Artificial radiation comes from microwaves, X-rays, smoke detectors, cell phones, TVs, and many more.  These are all unnatural sources that have been developed over time by the human race.  Although some emissions are natural, radiation is still very dangerous and harmful to the human body.

How does radiation affect the human body?

  Just like any other hazardous substance, the type, amount, and level of exposure all effect how radiation changes the body.  The higher the amount, time, and level of radiation that an individual is exposed to drastically increases the damaging affects that will take a toll on the body. The damage is also affected by how the radiation enters the body, whether it is through inhalation, ingestion, or absorption.  The average individual in the United States is exposed to 100-300 mrem per year.  This dosage includes natural and manmade sources.  The body can handle some amounts of radiation due to the fact that it's natural.  Overtime, over exposure causes dangerous effects to individuals and future generations.  On the lower end of exposure, between 5-25 rad, the small dose can only be detected by chromosome analysis.  Between 150-200 rad of exposure, the individual will experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fatigue.  At the highest and most dangerous level, greater than 1,000 rad, the individual will experience during sensations, vomiting, and confusion.  With this amount of exposure, the individual will be killed within one to two weeks.  If an individual survives after radiation exposure, the damage can still harm future generations.  The cells are permanently damaged and when reproducing, the damaged cells will be passed on to the offspring.  Overall, radiation exposure is a very serious topic.  It's important to be aware of your surroundings and know what you are being exposed to before it's too late. 

Sources:

  Hong Kong Observatory 

     http://www.hko.gov.hk/education/dbcp/radiation/eng/r12.htm

  Unites States Nuclear Regulatory Commission 

     http://www.nrc.gov/about-nrc/radiation/related-info/faq.html#2

  Basics of Industrial Hygiene 

     pages 231-232