What is a common source of man-made radiation?

Medical imaging and radiation therapies represent a significant source of man-made radiation exposure. This includes procedures such as X-rays, CT scans, and radiation treatments for cancer. These practices are crucial for diagnosing and treating various health conditions, allowing for improved medical outcomes. As a result, while beneficial for health, they also contribute to the overall exposure to radiation in populations.

On the other hand, nuclear power plants and industrial radiography also produce man-made radiation, but their primary purpose is not directly linked to medical services. Nuclear power plants generate electricity, and while they have safety measures in place to minimize public exposure, they still release some radiation as a byproduct of energy production. Similarly, industrial radiography is used to inspect materials and structures, applying radiation for quality control, which is essential for safety but not directly medical in nature. Lastly, natural background radiation refers to the radiation that occurs naturally in the environment from cosmic rays and radioactive materials in the earth, and therefore is not considered man-made.