IRRADIATION Meaning and
Definition
-
Irradiation refers to the process of exposing something to radiation. This can include exposing a substance or object to various forms of radiation, such as electromagnetic waves, particles, or other sources of radiation. The purpose of irradiation can vary depending on the context and the desired outcome.
In the field of food preservation, irradiation is a technique used to extend the shelf life of food by reducing or eliminating harmful bacteria, pests, and pathogens. This is achieved by subjecting the food to ionizing radiation, such as gamma rays or X-rays, which can penetrate the food and destroy microorganisms that may cause infection or spoilage. The irradiation process disrupts the DNA or cellular structure of these microorganisms, rendering them incapable of reproduction or causing harm.
In the medical field, irradiation is commonly used in radiation therapy to treat various conditions, particularly cancer. Radiation therapy involves directing high-energy beams of radiation towards cancerous cells in order to damage their DNA and prevent them from growing or spreading. This targeted irradiation can help shrink tumors or destroy cancer cells, contributing to the treatment and management of cancer.
Overall, irradiation is a technique that utilizes radiation to achieve specific objectives, such as sterilization, preservation, or treatment. Though often associated with potential risks and concerns, careful regulation and adherence to established guidelines ensure that irradiation processes are safe and effective while minimizing potential harmful effects on humans and the environment.
-
The apparent enlargement of a bright object seen against a dark background.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
-
The act of sending out rays of light; brightness; act of sending out minute particles; the apparent enlargement of the disc of a heavenly body.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for IRRADIATION *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for IRRADIATION
Etymology of IRRADIATION
The word "irradiation" has an etymology rooted in Latin.
The term comes from the Latin word "irradiare", which is a combination of "ir-" (a prefix meaning "in") and "radiare" (meaning "to radiate" or "shine"). Therefore, the word "irradiation" essentially means "to cause to be in a state of radiation".
The Latin word "radiare" itself is derived from "radius", meaning "ray" or "beam". This is related to the Greek word "radius", also meaning "ray". The concept behind the term "irradiation" is often linked to the spreading or emission of rays, particularly in the context of energy or radiation.
Similar spelling words for IRRADIATION
- radiation,
- Sur-irritation,
- erudition,
- Arietation,
- X-irradiation,
- Counter-Irritation,
- Eretation,
- irritation,
- Photo-Irritation-Factor,
- Eradiation,
- irradiate.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
