Ionizing radiation is a flow of several microparticles or electromagnetic fields that have the ability to ionize a substance. In everyday life, it is referred to as penetrating radiation, which consists of gamma rays, alpha particles, beta particles, and neutrons. Alpha particles are positively charged and contain two protons and two neutrons in the nucleus of the atom. Beta particles are negatively charged and consist of one electron and one proton.
Neutrons are generally unable to ionize an atom directly due to their lack of charge, but they can indirectly ionize a substance by being absorbed into a stable atom, making it unstable and more likely to emit ionizing radiation of another type. Ionizing radiation has enough energy to produce significant ionization of a substance. This means that it can cause changes in the chemical structure of atoms and molecules, leading to the formation of ions. These ions can then interact with other molecules, leading to further changes in the chemical structure. Ionizing radiation can be used for medical purposes, such as cancer treatment, or for industrial purposes, such as sterilization. Ionizing radiation is a powerful tool that should be used with caution.
It is important to understand the different types of radiation and how they interact with matter in order to ensure safe use.