What is Background Radiation?

Background radiation refers to the ionizing radiation that is present in the environment, which comes from a variety of sources. This includes both natural sources, such as cosmic rays from outer space, and man-made sources, including medical procedures (like X-rays) and industrial activities. The key aspect of background radiation is that it encompasses all of these sources together, rather than being limited to one specific type or source.

In most environments, background radiation is a constant presence, contributing to overall radiation exposure. Understanding this concept is crucial because it helps in recognizing the various factors that contribute to an individual's total radiation dose, further emphasizing the importance of considering both natural and human-made influences.