When dealing with radiation, what does the term "background radiation" refer to?

The term "background radiation" refers to the natural radiation present in the environment. This includes radiation emitted from various natural sources such as cosmic rays from outer space, terrestrial radiation from radioactive materials in the ground, and radiation from radon gas, which is found in many buildings and homes. Background radiation is a constant presence in our environment, contributing to the overall exposure individuals have to radiation on a daily basis.

Understanding background radiation is crucial for assessing radiation safety because it establishes a baseline against which artificial radiation exposure can be measured. Identifying this natural level helps in distinguishing between the radiation that people are exposed to regularly and any additional exposures that may be considered unsafe or harmful. This knowledge is fundamental for making informed decisions about radiation protection and risk assessment.