Radiation is a process by which energy is emitted as particles or waves. The term radiation refers to the emission of energy, not to the types of particles or waves emitted. There are many types of radiation, including electromagnetic radiation (such as visible light, radio waves, and X-rays), particle radiation (such as alpha rays, beta rays, and neutrons), and acoustic radiation (such as ultrasound and infrasound).
Radiation can be harmful to living organisms. It can cause damage to DNA, leading to mutations that may be passed on to future generations. It can also cause cancer. Radiation exposure is the main reason why people living near nuclear power plants are at increased risk for cancer. Some types of radioactive materials can stay in the environment for hundreds or even thousands of years after they are released into the air, water, or ground.
There are many uses for radiation that benefit humanity. For example, gamma rays from Cobalt-60 are used to sterilize medical equipment and food products. Radiation is also used in smoke detectors, fire alarms, and security systems. Additionally, X-rays are used in medicine to diagnose problems inside the human body without surgery.