Which of the following is the best definition of the term "ionizing radiation"?
A) This is radiation that has enough energy to dislodge a valence electron from an atom.
B) This is the radiation that is released during a nuclear reaction.
C) This is any electromagnetic radiation.
D) This is any nuclear or electromagnetic radiation.
E) This is any long-wavelength electromagnetic radiation.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ionizing radiation refers to radiation that has enough energy to remove an electron from an atom, creating an ion. This includes types of radiation such as alpha particles, beta particles, X-rays, and gamma rays. Option B only refers to nuclear reactions, while options C and E are too broad and do not convey the specific energy required to ionize atoms. Option D is partially correct, but it also includes non-ionizing radiation.

Which of the Following Is the Best Definition of the Term