radiation

Everyday

1. Radiation is energy that travels as invisible waves or tiny particles, like light, heat, X-rays and radio waves. tree →
2. Radiation often means the dangerous kind given off by radioactive things, which can harm living things in large amounts. tree →
3. Radiation is a medical treatment for some cancers that uses strong rays. tree →

In the lessons

In science lessons heat moves by conduction, convection and radiation; the Sun warms the Earth by radiation. In health: sun's UV radiation causes sunburn, so wear sun cream. In medicine: X-rays and radiation treatment. Phrases: UV radiation, heat radiation, radiation sickness.

Examples

• The Sun's heat reaches us by radiation. tree →
• UV radiation from the sun can burn your skin. tree →
• X-rays are a kind of radiation. tree →
• A fire warms you by radiation. tree →
• The sign warned of radiation danger. tree →
• Her aunt had radiation treatment in hospital. tree →
• Mobile phones use radio waves, a weak radiation. tree →
• Dark clothes absorb more radiation from the sun. tree →

Note

Uncountable. Verb: radiate. Myth: not all radiation is dangerous; light and radio waves are radiation too. Short forms: rads (unit), radiotherapy (UK medical word).