Non-ionizing radiation, such as radio waves, infrared, microwaves, visible light, and near ultraviolet, does not have enough energy to ionize molecules or atoms. While less harmful than ionizing radiation, it can still cause harm to living organisms. Laser light is the only potentially harmful form of non-ionizing radiation, and following safety procedures can protect against its effects.
Non-ionizing radiation is a category of radiation that does not have enough energy to ionize molecules or atoms. This inability is due to the low frequency and high wavelength of radiation waves. Radio waves, infrared, microwaves, visible light and near ultraviolet are the only forms of this type of radiation. While significantly less harmful than ionizing radiation, non-ionizing radiation can cause harm to living organisms such as humans. Protecting yourself and others is not difficult.
All forms of electromagnetic radiation are photons that behave like waves when they travel through space. When these photons come into contact with atoms, the atoms become more energetic by absorbing the photons. If the atoms gain enough energy, they release some electrons, ionizing the atoms. Although non-ionizing radiation transfers energy to receiving atoms, ionization never occurs.
In order of increasing energy, radio waves, microwaves, infrared radiation, visible light, and near ultraviolet are the only non-ionizing forms of radiation. These forms of radiation are ubiquitous in the universe and are produced by many man-made sources such as radio transmission towers, microwave ovens and light bulbs. Earth’s atmosphere filters out most of the radiation from cosmic sources.
Non-ionizing radiation is much less harmful to living organisms than ionizing radiation. The breaking of molecular bonds produced by ionizing radiation can cause DNA damage, leading to diseases such as cancer. Gamma radiation, the most powerful type of ionizing radiation, is released in large quantities during events such as the detonation of a nuclear weapon. While exposure to non-ionizing radiation is relatively much safer, the side effects of short-term exposure can still cause health problems.
The physical effects caused by radio waves produced by mobile phones or Wi-Fi antennas are negligible. However, visible light, especially light produced by lasers, can cause corneal burns and damage to the retina. This damage occurs due to the intensity of the light; can cause permanent damage even after brief exposure. More powerful lasers, such as those used in laboratory experiments, can rapidly produce skin burns or other serious injuries.
Since laser light is the only potentially harmful form of non-ionizing radiation, you just need to follow a few simple rules to protect yourself and others. For example, commercial laser pointers should be used responsibly. You should never give a child a laser pointer. If you work in a laboratory setting, following laboratory safety procedures and wearing protective eyewear will ensure that all experiments are conducted safely.
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