First stop
Radiation uncovered
What is radiation?
With the word 'radiation', many immediately imagine atomic explosions, accidents, and exclusion zones. But in fact, radiation is a constant companion of life on earth.
We live in a world where it is literally everywhere: our bodies contain naturally occurring radioactive isotopes (for example, potassium-40), background radiation emanates from the earth's soil and rocks, and the sun's light and heat comes from nuclear reactions occurring deep within its core.
Life on earth originated in this 'radiation background'. Radioactivity was discovered in the late 19th century. In 1895, Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen discovered the mysterious 'X-rays', and a year later, Henri Becquerel and Pierre and Marie Curie discovered that certain chemical elements (for example, uranium and radium) emit invisible rays. Scientists thus discovered that these elements are capable of spontaneously emitting ionizing radiation — they possess radioactivity — and this radiation, simply put, is radiation. All four scientist were rewarded with the Nobel prize in physics for their findings.
We live in a world where it is literally everywhere: our bodies contain naturally occurring radioactive isotopes (for example, potassium-40), background radiation emanates from the earth's soil and rocks, and the sun's light and heat comes from nuclear reactions occurring deep within its core.
Life on earth originated in this 'radiation background'. Radioactivity was discovered in the late 19th century. In 1895, Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen discovered the mysterious 'X-rays', and a year later, Henri Becquerel and Pierre and Marie Curie discovered that certain chemical elements (for example, uranium and radium) emit invisible rays. Scientists thus discovered that these elements are capable of spontaneously emitting ionizing radiation — they possess radioactivity — and this radiation, simply put, is radiation. All four scientist were rewarded with the Nobel prize in physics for their findings.
The study of radiation plays a vital role in modern society. First and foremost, it helps us understand the boundary between natural, safe radiation and dangerous levels of exposure that can harm human health and the environment.
Understanding the laws of radioactivity allows scientists and engineers to develop technologies that protect humans, animals, and the environment from radiation risks.
At the same time, radiation itself is actively used for peaceful purposes: without it, it is impossible to imagine modern medicine (X-rays, computed tomography, cancer radiation therapy, syringe sterilization, etc.), industry, materials research, as well as astronomy and space missions, where radiation facilitates space travel and the study of distant planets and stars.
Finally, understanding the nature of radiation enables us to make informed choices and critically consider the risks associated with accidents, military action, and nuclear testing. By studying radiation, we gain the key to a safer, more responsible, and technologically advanced future.
Understanding the laws of radioactivity allows scientists and engineers to develop technologies that protect humans, animals, and the environment from radiation risks.
At the same time, radiation itself is actively used for peaceful purposes: without it, it is impossible to imagine modern medicine (X-rays, computed tomography, cancer radiation therapy, syringe sterilization, etc.), industry, materials research, as well as astronomy and space missions, where radiation facilitates space travel and the study of distant planets and stars.
Finally, understanding the nature of radiation enables us to make informed choices and critically consider the risks associated with accidents, military action, and nuclear testing. By studying radiation, we gain the key to a safer, more responsible, and technologically advanced future.
remember
Radiation itself is not 'evil'. It all depends on how, and in what doses it is used or exposed.
Types of radioactivity
Distinguish between radiation and radioactivity. Radiation is ionizing radiation (it converts neutral atoms into electrically charged ions) that persists until absorbed by an object (substance), while radioactivity is the ability of substances and objects to emit ionizing radiation, i.e., to be a source of radiation.
Radioactivity can be natural — present in nature (uranium, radon, potassium-40, etc.) —or artificial — created by humans through nuclear reactions in laboratories, nuclear reactors, or nuclear explosions.
Radioactivity can be natural — present in nature (uranium, radon, potassium-40, etc.) —or artificial — created by humans through nuclear reactions in laboratories, nuclear reactors, or nuclear explosions.
Why are substances radioactive?
Because they contain unstable atomic nuclei. When these nuclei decay, they emit particles or rays that, upon entering the environment, turn into ionizing radiation. Elements with such unstable nuclei are called radioisotopes or radionuclides.
Depending on various properties (composition, penetrating power, energy), many types of ionizing radiation are distinguished, of which the most significant and widespread are:
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Alpha radiationAlpha particles (2 protons + 2 neutrons) are quite bulky and therefore easily blocked by even minor barriers: air, clothing, paper, window curtains, etc. If alpha radiation hits a naked person, it will not penetrate deeper than the superficial layers of the skin. However, despite its low penetrating power, alpha radiation has a powerful ionizing effect, which is especially dangerous if alpha-particle-emitting substances enter the human body directly, for example, through the lungs or digestive tract. -
Beta radiationBeta radiation is a stream of charged particles (electrons or positrons). This radiation has greater penetrating power than alpha particles and can be blocked by a wooden door, window glass, car body, etc. It is dangerous to humans when exposed to unprotected skin or if itaken up inside the body by e.g. swallowing. -
Gamma radiation and closely related X-raysBy its nature, gamma radiation is high-energy short-wave electromagnetic radiation. The main source of this type of radiation in nature is the sun, but its deadly rays do not reach humans thanks to the protective layer of the atmosphere.
It is impossible to completely avoid exposure to ionizing radiation, as
there is no place on our planet where it is completely absent. Life on Earth arose and continues to develop under conditions of constant radiation,
and partly thanks to him.
Radiation is all around us
Radiation is not a 'movie monster', but a natural phenomenon that constantly surrounds us. It only becomes dangerous when radiation levels exceed normal natural background levels and the body is exposed to this excessive radiation for too long. By understanding the boundary between safe and harmful, we can protect ourselves wisely, especially in high-risk areas like the Semipalatinsk test site.
Radiation is not a 'movie monster', but a natural phenomenon that constantly surrounds us. It only becomes dangerous when radiation levels exceed normal natural background levels and the body is exposed to this excessive radiation for too long. By understanding the boundary between safe and harmful, we can protect ourselves wisely, especially in high-risk areas like the Semipalatinsk test site.
How much radiation are we exposed to?
µSv — microsievert — unit of radiation dose, one millionth of a sievert
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0,1 µSvOne eaten banane -
5 µSvDental X-ray -
30 µSvA three-hour flight by plane -
70 µSvOne year living in a concrete/brick house -
30-300 µSvFluorography of the lungs -
100-500 µSvMammogram -
600-1000 µSvCosmic radiation for an astronaut on the ISS per day -
1 500 µSvX-ray of the spine -
2 500 µSvAnnual dose of solar radiation -
10 000 µSvComputed tomography -
13 000 - 36 000 µSvAnnual dose in the lungs of a cigarette smoker
Dangerous doses
- 500 000 µSvChanges in blood composition
- 1 000 000 µSvRadiation sickness
- 6 000 000 µSvLethal dose
How does radiation affect living organisms?
Radiation is invisible light that can penetrate tissue and... alter it from the inside. It all depends on the dose: small doses occur naturally and are harmless, while large doses can cause serious damage.
It is not noticeable from the outside, but at the microscopic level, significant changes occur. Radiation can damage your cells, including their genetic code—DNA, where our 'instruction manual for life' is stored.
If the damage is too severe or the exposure is prolonged, cells begin to behave 'abnormally'. This means that they change (mutate), stop dividing, or, conversely, divide too quickly, which can lead to the development of tumors.
It is not noticeable from the outside, but at the microscopic level, significant changes occur. Radiation can damage your cells, including their genetic code—DNA, where our 'instruction manual for life' is stored.
If the damage is too severe or the exposure is prolonged, cells begin to behave 'abnormally'. This means that they change (mutate), stop dividing, or, conversely, divide too quickly, which can lead to the development of tumors.
How does our body respond to radiation?
- Damage vital cells in the blood, bone marrow, skin, and internal organs
- Decreased immunity
- Tumors (cancer) may develop
- Damaged DNA can lead to children being born with birth defects, even if the parents themselves appear healthy.
What is radiophobia?
Radiophobia is a strong, often unfounded fear of various types of radiation. A person with this fear may fear not only nuclear waste or nuclear power plants, but also everyday things, such as cell phone towers, microwaves, or even some medical devices. Sometimes these fears are justified, but more often they are exaggerated or have no real basis in reality. Despite this, radiophobia causes real harm to health, causing so-called psychosomatic illnesses, when imaginary anxieties turn into obvious health losses and illnesses.
Where does it come from?
- Historical memoryDecades of testing at the Semipalatinsk test site, eyewitness accounts, old photos, and newsreels in which the explosions and destruction appear terrifying.
- Historical truth deficitDuring the testing period, almost everything was classified, and after the test site was closed, people often relied on rumors and myths instead of verified facts.
- Lack of reliable informationThere are no information boards, educational programs, information campaigns, or accessible publications at the site.
- Personal experienceIllnesses or losses of loved ones that are reasonably or unjustifiably associated with the consequences of radiation exposure.
In 1951, the american physician Jack De Ment described a new anxiety disorder that emerged in the wake of the advent of atomic weapons. He called it 'radiophobia'. In a publication in the Western Journal of Surgery, Obstetrics, and Gynecology, De Ment noted that this disorder affects both children and adults, and that public education and awareness are key to its treatment.
Why is radiophobia dangerous?
The biggest mistake is to ignore this phobia and think that 'it is all just made up'.
- People begin to avoid even safe places or technologies.
- Growing distrust of science and doctors.
- Stress and anxiety increase, which in itself is detrimental to health.
- The development of useful technologies, for example in medicine or energy, is slowed down.
Cure for fear
Knowledge! The more we understand how radiation works, where it is truly dangerous, and where it is not, the less reason there is to panic. Access to reliable data, open research, and honest dialogue with the public are the best ways to overcome radiophobia.
Test
Truths and myths about radiation
Radiation is all around us—from solar radiation, natural background radiation, and even medical procedures. Yet, despite this, it still surrounds many myths, fears, and speculation. It is time to figure out what is true and what is fiction.
Mark the TRUTH and the MYTH
Mark the TRUTH and the MYTH
You can sense radiation—for example, by seeing or smelling it.
No, radiation has no color, odor, or taste, and cannot be detected by the senses. This makes it particularly dangerous—it can only be detected using instruments (such as a radiometer—including a “Geiger counter”—or a dosimeter).
Correct! Radiation has no color, odor, or taste, and cannot be detected by the senses. This makes it particularly dangerous—it can only be detected using instruments (such as a radiometer—including a “Geiger counter”—or a dosimeter).
People are exposed to a small dose of radiation every day without even realizing it.
Correct! We are all exposed to natural background radiation every day—from cosmic rays, natural isotopes in the soil, water, food, and even in our own bodies. When we eat a banana, we receive a radiation dose of about 0.1 µSv—this is the so-called “banana dose.” This radiation is low and poses no health risk under normal conditions. By comparison, a flight from Almaty to London exposes you to approximately 500 such “banana doses.”
No, we are all exposed to natural background radiation every day—from cosmic rays, natural isotopes in the soil, water, food, and even in our own bodies. When we eat a banana, we receive a radiation dose of about 0.1 microsieverts—this is the so-called “banana dose.” This radiation is low and poses no health risk under normal conditions. For comparison: a flight from Almaty to London exposes you to approximately 500 such “banana doses.”
X-rays and fluoroscopy also involve ionizing radiation.
Correct! X-rays are a type of ionizing radiation—low-energy gamma rays. During medical procedures, low doses are used, which are not harmful as long as permissible radiation exposure limits are observed. This is why radiologists wear protective lead aprons, operate the X-ray machine from a separate room, and limit the frequency of procedures for patients.
That's incorrect! X-rays are a type of ionizing radiation—low-energy gamma rays. During medical procedures, low doses are used, which are not harmful as long as permissible radiation exposure limits are followed. That is why radiologists wear protective lead aprons, operate the X-ray machine from a separate room, and limit the frequency of procedures for patients.
Radioactive substances can accumulate in the human body.
Correct! Some isotopes, such as strontium-90 or cesium-137, can enter the body through food, water, or air and accumulate in tissues, particularly in bones and muscles. This can have serious health consequences.
No, some isotopes, such as strontium-90 or cesium-137, can enter the body through food, water, or air and accumulate in tissues, especially in bones and muscles. This can have serious health consequences.
The Semipalatinsk Test Site is now riddled with deadly radiation.
No, most of the Semipalatinsk Test Site is safe today. However, in some areas—especially at the epicenters of underground and surface explosions—radiation levels remain elevated and will continue to do so for a very long time. That is precisely why access to these areas must be regulated and monitored.
Correct! Today, most of the Semipalatinsk Test Site is safe. However, in some areas—especially at the epicenters of underground and surface explosions—radiation levels remain elevated and will continue to do so for a very long time. That is precisely why access to these areas must be regulated and monitored.
Uranium, other radioactive elements, and irradiated materials glow in the dark.
No, pure uranium does not glow in the dark. This myth originated from the luminescent paints used in the past in watches and instruments, which contained radioactive elements that caused these paints to glow when exposed to radiation. Today, toys, stickers, and other items are sold that glow in the dark for a relatively short time after being exposed to sunlight or a light bulb—these modern items do not contain radioactive substances.
That's right! Pure uranium does not glow in the dark. The myth about this arose because of the luminescent paints used in the past in watches and instruments, which contained radioactive elements that caused these paints to glow when exposed to radiation. Today, toys, stickers, and other items are sold that glow in the dark for a relatively short time after being exposed to sunlight or a light bulb—these modern items do not contain radioactive substances.
All radiation is equally dangerous.
No, there are several types of radiation (alpha, beta, gamma, and neutron), and they differ in terms of their penetrating power and biological effects. For example, alpha radiation is dangerous only when it enters the body, while gamma radiation can penetrate the body.
Correct! There are several types of radiation (alpha, beta, gamma, and neutron), and they differ in terms of their penetrating power and biological effects. For example, alpha radiation is dangerous only when it enters the body, while gamma radiation can penetrate the body.
The radiation dissipates a few hours after a nuclear explosion.
No, although some radioactive isotopes decay quickly, others remain active for tens, or even hundreds or thousands, of years. For example, half of the plutonium-239 will decay only after 24,000 years (its half-life). The consequences of nuclear testing will persist for centuries.
Correct! Some radioactive isotopes decay quickly, while others remain active for tens, or even hundreds or thousands, of years. For example, half of the plutonium-239 will decay only after 24,000 years (its half-life). The consequences of nuclear testing will persist for centuries.
There are places on Earth where the level of natural gamma radiation is higher than in the contaminated area near Chernobyl.
Correct! For example, in Guarapari, Brazil; Ramsar, Iran; and Kerala, India, the natural background radiation levels are tens of times higher than the global average. The reason is that the soil and sand contain minerals rich in uranium and thorium.
No! For example, in Guarapari, Brazil; Ramsar, Iran; and Kerala, India, the natural background radiation levels are tens of times higher than the global average. The reason is that the soil and sand contain minerals rich in uranium and thorium.
An X-ray machine emits radiation only at the moment the image is taken.
Correct! The X-ray machine turns on and emits gamma rays for only a fraction of a second while the image is being taken. The machine itself does not contain any radioactive materials; after the image is taken, the radiation level drops to zero.
No, the X-ray machine turns on and emits gamma rays for only a fraction of a second while the image is being taken. The machine itself does not contain any radioactive materials; after the image is taken, the radiation level drops to zero.
Cell phones emit radiation.
No, cell phones do not emit radiation. They use radio waves—electromagnetic radiation that is not ionizing radiation and is not “radiation.”
Correct! Cell phones do not emit radiation. They use radio waves—electromagnetic radiation that is not ionizing radiation and is not “radiation.”
Damage to genetic material is passed on to the next generation.
No, there is currently no confirmed scientific evidence that genetic damage caused by radiation is passed down to the next generation. Damaged genetic material can lead to the birth of a child with abnormalities, but these changes in DNA are not inherited or passed on, unlike classic hereditary genetic diseases that are not related to radiation.
Correct! There is currently no confirmed scientific evidence that genetic damage caused by radiation is passed down to the next generation. Damaged genetic material can lead to the birth of a child with abnormalities, but these changes in DNA are not inherited and are not passed on, unlike classic hereditary genetic diseases that are not related to radiation.
Is a nuclear war possible?
Unfortunately, yes. There are several nuclear-armed states in the world that possess many thousands of nuclear warheads. Moreover, a nuclear war has already taken place—during World War II, the United States used nuclear weapons against Japan, which had attacked it.
Unfortunately, no. There are several nuclear-armed states in the world that possess many thousands of nuclear warheads. Moreover, a nuclear war has already taken place—during World War II, the United States used nuclear weapons against Japan, which had attacked it.
Try again!
There are many myths surrounding radiation, so it's important to be able to distinguish between them.
Great start!
You know the basics, but there's still more to learn.
Perfect!
You know how to distinguish between facts and fiction and are ready to share your knowledge with others!
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This online course was developed by the EcoMuseum
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