This book lays the foundations for you to understand all that you always
wanted to know about radioactivity. It begins by setting out essential
information about the structure of matter, how radiation occurs and how
it can be measured. It goes on to explore the substantial benefits of
radioactivity through its many applications, and also the possible risks
associated with its use.
The field of radioactivity is explained in layman's terms, so that
everybody who is interested can improve their understanding of issues
such as nuclear power, radiation accidents, medical applications of
radiation and radioactivity from the environment.
Everything is radioactive. There is natural radioactivity in the homes
that we live in, the food that we eat and the air that we breath. For
over 100 years, people have recognised the potential for radioactivity
to help solve problems and improve our standard of living. This has led
to the creation of radioactivity levels in some places that are much
higher than naturally-occurring background levels. Such high levels of
radiation can be harmful to people and the environment, so there is a
clear need to manage this potential harm and to make the risk worth the
benefits mankind can achieve from radioactive materials.