Which type of radiation is primarily non-ionising?

Radio waves are primarily considered non-ionizing radiation because they possess relatively low energy compared to other forms of electromagnetic radiation. Non-ionizing radiation is characterized by its inability to remove tightly bound electrons from atoms or molecules, which is a key feature of ionizing radiation.

Radio waves are used in various applications such as communication, broadcasting, and radar technology. They operate at frequencies typically below 300 GHz, and due to their low energy levels, they do not have enough energy to cause ionization of atoms or molecules in the human body or other materials.

In contrast, ultraviolet radiation, X-rays, and gamma rays are forms of ionizing radiation. These types of radiation have higher energy levels that can disrupt atomic structures and potentially cause cellular and genetic damage. Understanding the distinction between these types of radiation is crucial in fields like health physics, medical imaging, and safety standards regarding exposure.