Nonparticulate Radiation [HD]

, more commonly referred to as electromagnetic radiation , consists of energy waves rather than physical particles. Unlike particulate radiation (such as alpha or beta particles, which have mass), nonparticulate radiation is composed of oscillating electric and magnetic fields that travel at the speed of light. Key Characteristics

Used for communication (cell phones, Wi-Fi) and heating food. What is Radiation? - International Atomic Energy Agency nonparticulate radiation

Frequently used in medical imaging to view internal structures. , more commonly referred to as electromagnetic radiation

It travels in a wave-like pattern and can move through a vacuum, such as outer space. What is Radiation

Because it has no mass, certain forms (like gamma rays) can penetrate much more deeply into materials than particulate radiation. The Electromagnetic Spectrum

High-energy waves that can strip electrons from atoms, potentially causing DNA damage.