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Answer to Question #1978 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"Category: Radiation Basics — Interaction Coefficients The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field: Q
What happens to a radiation emission (x ray, gamma ray, alpha, neutron, beta, etc.) when it doesn't interact with an object? These are particles with physical dimensions. Does the dissipation in energy (mass) result in heat transfer or just the ionization of air particles?
A
Radiation can continue to travel indefinitely without energy loss until it interacts with matter. Cosmic rays reaching earth, for example, might travel eons before reaching the earth, like light from distant stars. The interaction of radiation with any matter, including the ionization of air which you mention, ultimately results in the degradation of radiation energy into heat. James Turner, CHP
Answer posted on 17 May 2002. The information and material posted on this Web site is intended as general reference information only. Specific facts and circumstances may alter the concepts and applications of materials and information described herein. The information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon in the absence of such professional advice specific to whatever facts and circumstances are presented in any given situation. Answers are correct at the time they are posted on the Web site. Be advised that over time, some requirements could change, new data could be made available, or Internet links could change. For answers that have been posted for several months or longer, please check the current status of the posted information prior to using the responses for specific applications.
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