What is the effect of radiation on living tissue?

Radiation can significantly impact living tissue, primarily leading to cellular damage or mutations. This occurs because radiation interacts with the atoms and molecules within cells, potentially damaging DNA and other critical cellular components. Such damage can manifest in various ways, including cell death, impaired cellular function, or mutations that may lead to cancer.

Understanding the biological effect of radiation is crucial in fields like industrial radiography, where radiation is routinely used for non-destructive testing. Knowledge of these effects guides safety protocols and protective measures to minimize exposure for both workers and the public. The acknowledgement of these potential risks underscores the imperative for radiation safety training and adherence to safety standards. This understanding is essential to ensure safe working conditions in environments where radiation is present.