Before knowing about electromagnetic waves and various other types of radiations, let us try to know what is radiation?
The emission or transmission of energy in the form of particles or waves through space or through a material medium is known as radiation. We have come across many types of radiation in real life. Radiation is classified as ionizing or non-ionizing depending on the energy of the radiated particles. Radiations are classified into:
- Electromagnetic radiation
- Particle radiation – alpha radiation, beta radiation, and neutron radiation
- Acoustic radiation – seismic waves, ultrasound, and sound waves
- Gravitational radiation
Radiations are of wide range and they include Normal light, UV radiation, X-rays, gamma rays, microwaves and many more are some of the radiations we have come across. These radiations come under electromagnetic radiation and are classified according to its source and effects.
The waves in which it propagates in the electromagnetic field and carry electromagnetic energy are known as electromagnetic radiation. Let us know about the properties of electromagnetic waves. Electromagnetic radiation is released by electrically charged particles that are under acceleration. These waves interact with other charged particles, exerting force on them. When the magnetic field and the electric fields are at 90 degrees to each other, the combined waves move perpendicular to both electric and magnetic oscillating fields occurring the disturbance. Electromagnetic radiation carries momentum, energy and angular momentum from their source particle and has the strength to impart these qualities to the matter they interact with.
Radioactive radiations are another type of radiation, where atoms are seen with unstable nuclei and these atoms emit excess energy or mass in the form of radiation. Let us know the various effects of radiations. Radiations will have both useful and harmful effects.
Sunshine is one of the natural and useful sources of radiation. The solar energy has matchless use. Lower frequency ultraviolet radiation is used to treat health ailments. A moderate quantity of X-ray is used to diagnose various diseases and defects in the human body.
High-frequency radiation damages the living tissue by damaging DNA and changing cell structure. The higher the radiation dosage, more is the chance of developing the deadly disease cancer.
Intense exposure to radiation at 1000 to 5000 rems will influence the functioning of the heart. Sever hair fall problem is seen when exposed to radiation higher than 200 rems.
These are some of the effects of radiations. To know more about various interesting science topics, visit BYJU’S!!