What does "background radiation" refer to?

Background radiation refers to the natural radiation that is constantly present in the environment. This type of radiation originates from various sources, such as cosmic rays from outer space, radon gas emitted from the ground, and radioactive materials like uranium and thorium that occur naturally in the Earth’s crust.

Understanding background radiation is crucial in the field of radiation safety, as it establishes a baseline level of radiation exposure that individuals experience in their daily lives. Recognizing this background level helps in assessing additional exposures and understanding the potential health risks associated with different types of radiation.

In contrast, radiation from medical equipment and artificial radiation created by humans are specific and often controlled sources of exposure, while radiation emitted by electronic devices does not contribute to the background radiation level and is typically much lower in intensity.