Question

Choose the correct statement(s) regarding background radiations.

• A. It is the small level of radioactive radiation present in the environment.
• B. Diagnostic imaging applications like X-rays, CT scans and gamma rays are sources of background radiations.
• C. Naturally occurring radioactive elements like radon contribute to background radiations.
• D. Nuclear weapons and nuclear sites do not contribute to background radiations.

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (B), (C)

Naturally occurring radioactive elements like radon contribute to background radiations.

Background radiations are ionising radiations present everywhere in the environment. Background radiations originate from a variety of sources, both natural and artificial. Sources include cosmic radiations, naturally occurring radioactive elements such as radon, and fallout from the testing of nuclear weapons and nuclear accidents. Medical imaging is also a major contributor to artificial background radiations.