Radioactivity
Radioactivity takes different forms including alpha, beta, gamma, and neutron radiation, which have different capabilities to penetrate different substances.
X-ray sources
Gamma radiation is just high-energetic electromagnetic radiation (photons). We can ‘artificially’ create such high-energy radiation in an X-ray tube, in that case we refer to it as X-rays. X-rays are commonly used in medical scans like those performed in a CT scanner.
Internal tissue
The radioactive daughter products of radon (mainly polonium isotopes) can be inhaled and become lodged in the lungs. When these radon daughters decay by emitting alpha particles, these will damage cells due to the close proximity between the decaying isotope and the DNA material. Alpha particles cannot penetrate deeply and are much less damaging if the radioactive material that emits the alpha particle is on the outside of the body (for example on the skin).
Radioactive radiation
Artificial sources
When we think of radiation, we often think of artificial sources, such as X-ray or medical scans, but these sources have little effect.
Alpha radiation vs Gamma radiation
Alpha radiation (such as radon) has a much greater effect on DNA than gamma radiation. Imagine DNA being hit by a cannonball, that is what alpha radiation is like. Whereas gamma radiation is like the DNA being hit by a needle. There is a big difference in damage.
Is radon a man-made problem?
The radon concentration within buildings is often much greater than outside. The gas comes from the ground and is captured and contained in our homes, resulting in levels that we seldom find in nature.
How does radon enter my home?
Radon rises and can enter a home or workplace through cracks in the foundation, entry points for pipes and more.
Will radon reach the top floors?
Some buildings have a higher radon level in the top floors. This can be due to artificial ventilation, natural updraft, or building materials used.
Does the weather affect radon levels?
Yes. Radon levels can be affected by natural sources such as cold weather, wind, pressure and shifting soil—even earthquakes and local construction.
Everyone is at risk of radon.
However, some are especially vulnerable.
All children are sensitive
Children’s organs are still developing
Their replicative tissue is more vulnerable to DNA damage.
Children weigh less
Their exposure is greater, as it is measured in concentration per kilogram.
Children breathe faster
They actually respire 2-3 times faster than adults as their lungs are much smaller.
Children have more life left
And thus could live long enough to get cancer from early life radon exposure.
Temperature
Pressure
Humidity
Ventilation
Building insulation
Your home’s foundation
Snowfall
Ice
Rain
Earthquakes
Choose your radon detector
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