What type of radiation includes background radiation?

Background radiation primarily originates from natural sources, including cosmic radiation from outer space, terrestrial radiation from radioactive materials in the earth, and internal radiation from radioactive isotopes within the human body. These natural sources contribute to the baseline level of radiation that individuals are exposed to in their everyday environment.

Natural background radiation is fundamental in understanding overall exposure to radiation, as it represents the radiation that is present without any human intervention. This exposure is constant and exists irrespective of medical procedures, industrial processes, or artificial sources, which can introduce additional radiation but do not constitute background radiation.

By recognizing the significance of natural sources in the context of radiation safety, individuals can better assess their exposure levels and understand the contributions of both natural and artificial origins in various settings.