Pienoissäteily

Pienoissäteily, also known as terrestrial radiation, refers to the ionizing radiation originating from naturally occurring radioactive isotopes found in the Earth's crust, soil, and building materials. The primary contributors to pienoissäteily are isotopes of uranium, thorium, and potassium, which decay over time, emitting alpha, beta, and gamma radiation.

The concentration of these radioactive elements varies significantly depending on geographical location and the geological composition of the area. For instance, regions with granite or certain sedimentary rocks tend to have higher levels of radioactive isotopes. Pienoissäteily is a ubiquitous component of our natural environment, and humans have been exposed to it throughout history.

A significant component of pienoissäteily is radon, a radioactive gas that can accumulate in enclosed spaces such as homes and buildings, particularly those with poor ventilation. Radon is a product of the decay of uranium and thorium. Exposure to radon gas is a known risk factor for lung cancer.

The intensity of pienoissäteily can be measured in units such as microsieverts per hour (µSv/h). While the average annual dose from pienoissäteily varies globally, it generally constitutes a significant portion of an individual's total annual radiation exposure. Regulatory bodies often set guidelines for acceptable levels of indoor radon to mitigate health risks. Understanding and monitoring pienoissäteily is important for assessing environmental radiation levels and potential health implications.