Environmental Radioactivity

Abstract

Natural radioactivity from the environment has three components: cosmic rays, terrestrial radiation, ingestion (eating, drinking, and breathing). Cosmic rays from our Sun and our galaxy and terrestrial radiation from the Earth crust as well as incorporations of radioisotopes from the biosphere represent whole-body exposures. A special role is played by the inhalation of the radioactive noble gas radon which, in particular, represents an exposure for the lungs and the bronchi. coexistence of life In addition to these natural sources further exposures due to techni- and radioactivity cal, scientific, and medical installations developed by modern society occur. The existence of natural radioactive substances, however, demonstrates that radioactivity and the development of life coexisted since the very earliest times on our planet.

“For a successful technology, reality must take precedence over public relations, for Nature cannot be fooled.”

Richard Feynman