If an electron is “knocked” out of its orbit it leaves a positively charged ion. When ionizing radiation passes through anything, it can knock electrons out of their orbits, forming ions; hence its name. Some energy from the ionizing radiation is used up each time an electron is knocked from its orbit.

How are ions produced by ionizing radiation?

When ionizing radiation passes through material such as air, water, or living tissue, it deposits enough energy to produce ions by breaking molecular bonds and displace (or remove) electrons from atoms or molecules. … This electron displacement may lead to changes in living cells.

How does ionizing radiation affect an atom?

Ionizing radiation describes atoms becoming ionized to ions. During ionizing radiation, an electron is ejected off the atom, causing the atom to lose an electron and become ionized. Non-ionizing radiation is generally caused by excitation of electrons.