18709 - Atoms in Action: Ionizing Radiation in Today’s World

Course Overview

Deepen your understanding of ionizing radiation, what it is and how it affects you. The class will begin with a brief examination of atomic structure, isotopes, and the nature of physical, chemical, and nuclear changes in matter. Radiation topics include natural background radiation, the differences between ionizing and non-ionizing radiation, ionizing radiation measurement, and radiation protection principles. A scientifically grounded perspective on the biological effects of ionizing radiation will be presented, including how the body repairs cell damage via the body's adaptive protection mechanisms. An instructor-led tour of the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History is offered as a follow-on class activity for those with an interest.