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nonionizing radiation
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nonionizing radiation

physics
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Nonionizing radiation encompasses electromagnetic waves such as radio frequencies, microwaves, infrared, and ultraviolet light. Unlike ionizing radiation, it does not have enough energy to remove electrons from atoms and molecules. The primary effect of nonionizing radiation on biological tissues is heating.1234

While generally less toxic than ionizing radiation, prolonged or intense exposure can cause harm, particularly to the skin and eyes. For instance, microwave radiation can lead to localized tissue heating, and excessive exposure to infrared radiation or microwaves can cause cataracts. Radio frequencies, on the other hand, have relatively low toxicity.124

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
7 Britannica Sources
  1. radiation - Hertzian waves
  2. poison - Nonionizing radiation
  3. radiation - Radionuclides in diagnosis
  4. radiation - Treating cancer and other diseases with highly energetic forms of ionizing radiation
  5. radiation - Brain and sensory organs
  6. radiation - Mechanism of biologic action
  7. occupational disease - Nonionizing radiation

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