What is the difference between ionising and non-ionising radiation?

Ionising radiation has enough energy to remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, while non-ionising radiation does not.

Ionising radiation includes types like X-rays, gamma rays, and some ultraviolet (UV) light. These forms of radiation have high energy levels that can knock electrons out of atoms, creating ions. This process can damage or alter the structure of molecules within cells, potentially leading to harmful effects such as radiation sickness, cancer, or genetic mutations. Because of these risks, ionising radiation is used carefully in medical imaging and treatments, as well as in industrial applications.

Non-ionising radiation, on the other hand, includes visible light, microwaves, radio waves, and infrared radiation. These types of radiation do not have enough energy to ionise atoms or molecules. Instead, they may cause atoms to vibrate or move, which can lead to heating effects. For example, microwaves heat food by causing water molecules to vibrate, and infrared radiation is felt as heat. Non-ionising radiation is generally considered less harmful than ionising radiation, but it can still pose risks, such as skin burns from excessive UV exposure or tissue damage from prolonged microwave exposure.

Understanding the difference between ionising and non-ionising radiation is crucial for safety and practical applications. Ionising radiation is powerful and can be dangerous, requiring strict safety measures. Non-ionising radiation is more common in everyday life and is generally safer, but it still requires careful use to avoid potential harm.