Radiation Chemical Processes

Radiation-chemical processes are complex phenomena that occur when ionizing radiation interacts with matter. They lead to the formation of chemically active free atoms and radicals, as well as excited molecules. Every year, people are exposed to radiation, which can lead to a variety of diseases, including cancer.

Radiation-chemical processes mainly occur at the molecular level. Ionizing radiation, such as gamma rays, x-rays, and beta particles, can penetrate body tissue and cause various effects. One of the main effects is the ionization of water, which leads to the formation of hydroxyl radicals, HO•. These radicals can react chemically with biological molecules such as DNA and proteins, leading to their degradation.

Another important process associated with radiation chemical reactions is the formation of carbon radicals, which can react with oxygen to form carbon dioxide. This process can lead to oxidative stress in cells, which can lead to DNA damage and increase the risk of cancer.

However, not all radiation-chemical processes are harmful to the body. For example, irradiating food can kill bacteria and viruses, making it safe to eat. Additionally, in some cases, radiation chemical processes can be used to create new materials such as polymers.

In general, radiation-chemical processes are a complex phenomenon that has both positive and negative consequences. Understanding these processes can help us develop more effective treatments for cancer and radiation-related diseases, as well as create new materials and technologies.



Radiation chemical processes are chemical processes that occur in a substance as a result of interaction with ionizing radiation. During such processes, the formation of chemically active atoms and radicals, as well as excited molecules, occurs. This chemical interaction plays an important role in many fields of science and technology: biology, chemistry, nuclear physics and medicine.

In nuclear physics, radiation-chemical processes are used in experimental studies on atomic nuclei, where high-energy particles bombard the nuclei and cause radiation-induced chemical reactions. Also in technology and industry, radiation-chemical reactions occur when materials and preparations are exposed to ionizing rays. In these cases, the main process is the formation of reactive oxygen species, which can lead to oxidative reactions and changes in the structure and properties of materials. One of the most common applications of radiation-chemical methods in biomedical research is radiation biological diagnostics, in particular in the field of medical imaging. In some cases, a radiation-chemical method is used for treatment, for example, radiotherapy of tumors.

One of the key issues studied in radiation chemistry is the processes involving free radicals and their physiological or toxic effects. The interaction of ions with electrons can lead to the formation of radical ions, also known as reactive oxygen species. Such molecules are free radium, which have a strong