A type of radiation that directly or indirectly displaces electrons from the original shell belt of atoms is called _____________ radiation.

The type of radiation that directly or indirectly displaces electrons from their original shells is called ionizing radiation. This process occurs because ionizing radiation has enough energy to overcome the binding energy of electrons, resulting in the ejection of these electrons from the atom. This loss of electrons creates ions, which are charged particles that can lead to a variety of chemical changes and biological effects in matter, including living tissues.

Ionizing radiation encompasses various forms, including alpha particles, beta particles, gamma rays, and X-rays. These forms of radiation can cause significant damage to cellular structures and are regulated due to their potential health risks. Understanding ionizing radiation is crucial for professionals working in fields like industrial radiography, where safety protocols must be strictly followed to minimize exposure risks.

In contrast, non-ionizing radiation does not possess enough energy to displace electrons, meaning it does not have the same ionizing effects as ionizing radiation. Electrostatic and low-level radiation are not terms typically used to describe the ability of radiation to ionize atoms, which further reinforces why ionizing is the appropriate classification in this context.