Ionizing radiation consists of high-energy radiation that can ionize atoms. Which statement best describes this property?

• A. It can remove electrons from atoms.
• B. It cannot interact with matter.
• C. It travels through air without interaction.
• D. It is harmless in all exposures.

Answer: (A)

Ionizing radiation is defined by its ability to knock electrons off atoms. That energy is enough to overcome the electrons’ binding energy, leaving behind ions. When electrons are removed, chemical bonds can break and reactive species form, which is why ionizing radiation can cause chemical and biological damage. So the statement that best describes this property is that it can remove electrons from atoms.

It does interact with matter, which is why shielding and detectors work. It can travel through air and be detected or attenuated along the way, but it is not guaranteed to pass through without any interaction. It is not harmless in all exposures, since even small doses can have health effects.