ABSTRACT
In this chapter we consider basic physical, chemical and biological aspects of the interaction of ionizing radiation with matter and mention several applications. Nuclear reactions are discussed in Chapter 4.
Ionizing radiation loses energy when it passes through a medium and interacts with constituent atoms and molecules. The latter absorb energy and become excited or ionized, thereby generating chemically reactive species such as free radicals.
In representing the chemical action of radiation we consider the radiolytic behavior of water (liquid, vapor, ice) as a model system.
The biological consequences of irradiation are presented in the light of radiation chemistry of individual cell constituents as well as the findings at the cellular level. Exposure of the human body and the risks of irradiation are also considered.
Radiation detection and dosimetry are essentially based on physical changes induced by radiation and examples of related techniques are given.
Radiation-induced chemical and biological effects have found various applications in everyday life and ionizing radiation is beginning to emerge as a new, specific source of energy in industry.
