Question

Describe the main source of radiation exposure during jet plane travel.

Short answer

Cosmic radiation is the main source of radiation during jet plane travel.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Radiation Sources

During flight, passengers and crew are above a significant portion of the Earth's atmosphere, which normally shields us from space radiation. This positioning results in exposure to radiation not typically encountered at ground level.

Identify the Type of Radiation

The primary source of radiation during a flight is cosmic radiation. These are high-energy particles that originate mainly from outer space, outside our solar system.

Understanding Cosmic Radiation Contribution

At higher altitudes, such as those reached during jet plane travel, the attenuation of these cosmic rays by the atmosphere is reduced. Thus, there is an increased exposure compared to being on the ground.

Other Contributing Factors

Factors that affect the amount of cosmic radiation exposure include altitude, latitude, and the solar activity at the time of the flight. Higher altitudes and latitudes, as well as lower solar activity, increase exposure.

Key concepts

cosmic radiation

Cosmic radiation consists of high-energy particles that travel through space, originating mainly from outside our solar system. These particles include protons, helium nuclei, and other heavier nuclei. As they enter Earth's atmosphere, they can interact with atomic nuclei in the air, creating a cascade of secondary particles that further contribute to radiation exposure at higher altitudes.
The interaction of cosmic rays with the Earth's atmosphere also produces isotopes, such as carbon-14, which scientists use as a tool for carbon dating. Understanding cosmic radiation is crucial because it affects not only aviation but also satellite operations and astronauts in space.

• Originates from outer space beyond our solar system
• Composed of high-energy particles
• Creates secondary radiation particles when interacting with Earth's atmosphere

airplane travel

When you travel by plane, you experience an increase in exposure to cosmic radiation. This is because airplanes fly at altitudes where the protective layers of the Earth's atmosphere are much thinner. The higher you go, the less atmosphere there is to shield you from cosmic rays.
During a typical flight, the cabin environment results in heightened exposure levels compared to on the ground. Despite this increase, the radiation dose received during air travel is generally low and considered safe for occasional travelers. However, frequent flyers and airline crew might receive higher doses over time due to repeated and prolonged flights.

• Higher exposure at cruising altitudes than at ground level
• Frequent flyers and flight crew potentially accumulate higher doses
• Overall exposure considered safe for infrequent travelers

atmosphere shielding

The Earth's atmosphere acts as an essential shield against cosmic radiation. At ground level, the thick layers of atmosphere absorb and scatter the majority of these high-energy particles, significantly reducing radiation levels compared to higher altitudes. This natural shielding is primarily due to the density and composition of atmospheric gases.
As altitude increases, the thickness of the atmosphere decreases, leading to less absorption and scattering of cosmic rays. Consequently, people at higher altitudes, such as those in airplanes, are subjected to higher levels of cosmic radiation.

• Major reduction of cosmic radiation at ground level
• Density and composition of atmosphere crucial for protection
• Reduced shielding at higher altitudes

space radiation

Space radiation is a unique challenge for space missions, as it includes cosmic rays, solar particle events, and trapped radiation belts around planets. Unlike on Earth, where the atmosphere provides significant protection, space expeditions must rely on spacecraft shielding to protect astronauts.
In addition to cosmic rays from distant galaxies, solar flares can release large quantities of energetic particles, contributing to the radiation threat in space. These events can complicate space travel, necessitating careful planning and advanced materials to mitigate exposure.

• Includes cosmic rays and solar particle events
• Spacecraft shielding critical for astronaut safety
• Occurrence of solar flares increases radiation risk