Sekundäärisäteily

Sekundäärisäteily refers to radiation that is produced when primary radiation interacts with matter. This interaction can cause the primary radiation to be absorbed, scattered, or to induce the emission of new particles or electromagnetic radiation. For example, when high-energy photons like gamma rays or X-rays strike an atom, they can eject electrons, creating secondary electrons. These electrons can then cause further ionization and excitation in the surrounding material. Similarly, when charged particles like protons or alpha particles interact with matter, they can also produce secondary particles, including other charged particles and neutrons. Neutrons themselves, when captured by atomic nuclei, can lead to the emission of gamma rays or other particles, which are also considered secondary radiation. This process is particularly relevant in the context of nuclear reactions and particle physics. Understanding secondary radiation is crucial for radiation shielding, dosimetry, and the design of particle detectors, as it contributes significantly to the overall radiation field and its biological effects.