Radiation Safety Practice Exam

What is ionization?

1. The process of a neutral atom acquiring either a positive or negative charge

2. The process of splitting an atom into smaller particles

3. The process of combining atoms to form a molecule

4. The process of adding electrons to an atom

The correct answer is: The process of a neutral atom acquiring either a positive or negative charge

Ionization is defined as the process by which a neutral atom either gains or loses one or more electrons, resulting in the formation of a charged particle known as an ion. When an atom loses an electron, it becomes positively charged (a cation), and when it gains an electron, it becomes negatively charged (an anion). This transformation is fundamental in the fields of chemistry and physics because it affects the atom's reactivity and interactions with other atoms or molecules. In contrast to the other processes described in the other choices, ionization specifically involves the alteration of an atom's electron configuration and charge state, not the physical splitting of the atom, formation of molecular structures, or merely the addition of electrons. Understanding ionization is crucial in the context of radiation safety, as many forms of radiation can cause ionization in materials they interact with, which can lead to various biological effects depending on the extent and type of exposure.