What is background radiation and where does it come from?

Background radiation is the natural radiation that is always present in our environment from various sources.

Background radiation is a form of ionising radiation that is constantly present in the natural environment. It is emitted from natural and artificial sources. Natural sources include cosmic rays from space, radioactive materials in the earth's crust, and even from within our own bodies. Artificial sources, on the other hand, are man-made and include nuclear power plants, medical procedures, and certain industrial processes.

Cosmic rays are high-energy particles from space that reach the earth's surface, contributing to background radiation. The amount of cosmic radiation we are exposed to depends on our altitude and latitude. For instance, people living at higher altitudes or near the poles are exposed to more cosmic radiation than those living at sea level or near the equator.

Radioactive materials in the earth's crust, such as uranium, thorium, and radon, also contribute to background radiation. These materials release radiation as they decay. Radon gas, in particular, can seep into buildings and become trapped, increasing the level of background radiation indoors.

Our bodies also contain naturally occurring radioactive substances, like potassium-40 and carbon-14, which contribute to our exposure to background radiation. These substances are incorporated into our bodies through the food we eat and the air we breathe.

Artificial sources of background radiation are the result of human activities. Nuclear power plants, for example, release small amounts of radioactive gases, which increase the level of background radiation in their vicinity. Medical procedures, such as X-rays and nuclear medicine, also contribute to background radiation. Additionally, certain industrial processes, like coal burning and phosphate fertiliser production, can release radioactive substances into the environment.

In conclusion, background radiation is a natural and unavoidable part of our environment. It comes from a variety of sources, both natural and artificial, and varies depending on where we live and what activities we engage in.