Ionizing radiation

Template:TOC-right Ionizing radiation is generally to be considered capable of human or animal bodies, and causing physiological effects. They include high energy X-rays, gamma rays, and neutrons are penetrating radiations. Under specialized circumstances, sources of non-penetrating energy, such as alpha particles, may be considered as kinds of ionizing radiation if their source enters the body such that normal bodily measures do not protect against their effects.

If delivered in suffient intensity, over a short period of time, to the entire body, they may cause acute radiation syndrome. In the U.S. and other countries, sources of ionizing radiation (e.g., a X-ray machine used in diagnostic imaging) that are claimed to have health benefits are also considered radiation-emitting products, although such products may also emit non-ionizing radiation such as ultrasound.

Sources of ionizing radiation, above a certain level of intensity and ability to penetrate, may also fall under the regulation of other organizations, such as the U.S. Department of Energy. Materials that emit signficant ionizing radiation at all times can be considered hazardous materials. An improvised device that cause uncontrolled release of sources of ionizing radiation may be considered a radiological weapon.

There are an immense number of beneficial applications of ionizing radiation, but the sources need to be handled properly so that they do not become a hazard.