Non-ionizing radiation. Types and characteristics of radiation

Everywhere we are surrounded by electromagnetic fields. Depending on their wave range, they can act differently on living organisms in different ways. More sparing are considered non-ionizing radiation, but they are sometimes unsafe. What are these phenomena, and what impact do they have on our bodies?

What is non-ionizing radiation?

Energy is distributed in the form of small particles and waves. The process of its emission and propagation is called radiation. By the nature of the impact on objects and living tissues, two main types are distinguished. The first - ionizing, is a stream of elementary particles, which are formed as a result of the fission of atoms. It includes radioactive, alpha, beta, gamma, X-ray, gravitational radiation and Hawking rays.

The second kind of radiation includes non-ionizing radiation. In fact, these are electromagnetic waves, whose length is more than 1000 nm, and the amount of energy released is less than 10 keV. It acts as microwaves, resulting in the release of light and heat.

Unlike the first kind, this radiation does not ionize the molecules and atoms of the substance, which is affected, that is, it does not break the bonds between its molecules. Of course, there are exceptions here. Thus, certain species, for example, UV rays can ionize a substance.

Types of non-ionizing radiation

Electromagnetic radiation is a much broader concept than non-ionizing radiation. High-frequency X-rays and gamma rays are also electromagnetic, however they are more rigid and ionize the substance. All other types of EMR are non-ionizing, their energy is not enough to interfere in the structure of matter.

The greatest length among them has radio waves, whose range ranges from superlong (more than 10 km) to ultrashort (10 m - 1 mm). The waves of the other EM emissions are less than 1 mm. After the radio emission, infrared or thermal radiation occurs, the length of its waves depends on the heating temperature.

Non-ionizing is also visible light and ultraviolet radiation. The first is often called optical. Its spectrum is very close to infrared rays and is formed when the bodies are heated. Ultraviolet radiation is close to x-ray, so it can have the ability to ionize. At a wavelength of 400 to 315 nm, it is recognized by the human eye.

Sources

Non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation can be of both natural and artificial origin. One of the main natural sources is the Sun. It sends out all kinds of radiation. Their complete penetration on our planet is hampered by the earthly atmosphere. Thanks to the ozone layer, humidity, carbon dioxide, the effect of harmful rays is greatly mitigated.

For radio waves, natural lightning can serve as a natural source, as well as space objects. Thermal infrared rays can emit any body heated to the desired temperature, although the main radiation comes from artificial objects. So, its main sources are heaters, burners and ordinary incandescent lamps, which are present in every house.

Radio waves are transmitted by any electrical conductors. Therefore, all electrical appliances, as well as devices for radio communication, for example, mobile phones, satellites, etc. become an artificial source. Ultraviolet rays distribute special fluorescent, mercury-quartz lamps, light-emitting diodes, excilamps.

Effects on humans

Electromagnetic radiation is characterized by wavelength, frequency and polarization. From all these criteria, the force of its influence depends. The longer the wave, the less energy it carries to the object, which means it is less harmful. The most harmful effect of radiation in the decimeter-centimeter range.

Non-ionizing radiation with prolonged exposure to humans can cause harm to health, although in moderate doses they can be useful. Ultraviolet rays can cause burns to the skin and eye cornea, cause various mutations. And in medicine with their help they synthesize vitamin D3 in the skin, sterilize the equipment, disinfect water and air.

In medicine, infrared radiation is used to improve metabolism and stimulation of blood circulation, disinfection of food products. With excessive heating, this radiation can greatly dry out the mucous eyes, and at maximum power - even destroy the DNA molecule.

Radio waves are used for mobile and radio communications, navigation systems, television and other purposes. The constant action of radio frequencies emanating from household appliances can increase the excitability of the nervous system, worsen brain function, negatively affect the cardiovascular system and reproductive function.