How is radiation defined?

Radiation is best defined as energy that is emitted in the form of waves or particles. The correct understanding of radiation encompasses several mechanisms, including energy released during processes such as nuclear fission. During nuclear fission, the nucleus of an atom splits into smaller parts, releasing a significant amount of energy in the form of radiation, which can include particles like neutrons and gamma rays. This definition aligns with the broader concept of radiation, as it emphasizes the energy aspect associated with nuclear reactions.

While the physical presence of radioactive materials and particles emitted from those materials are important components of understanding radiation, they do not fully capture the broader definition, which is inherently linked to the energy released. Similarly, the measurement of radiation in specific environments does not define radiation itself but rather relates to how we quantify exposure or presence. Thus, the energy associated with processes like nuclear fission effectively encapsulates the essence of what radiation entails.