ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Theory of dual radiation action

Imagine your body is like a castle with many walls to protect it. When you are exposed to radiation, it is like an invader trying to break through one of those walls. The theory of dual radiation action explains how radiation can damage both the walls of your castle and the things inside it.

First, let's talk about the walls or barriers that protect your body. These barriers include your skin, bones, and other tissues. Radiation can pass through these barriers and harm the cells that make up your body's organs and tissues. This is called direct radiation damage.

Now, let's think about what's inside your castle. Your body's cells are constantly busy doing their jobs, but radiation can interfere with these processes. For example, radiation can damage the cells' DNA, which is like the blueprint for making more cells. This means that cells might not be able to make more cells properly or might not function as they should. This is called indirect radiation damage.

So, in summary, the theory of dual radiation action says that radiation can damage both the walls that protect your body and the things inside your body. This can lead to a range of health effects, from redness and irritation on the skin to more serious conditions like cancer. To keep your body safe from radiation, it's important to limit your exposure to sources of radiation and protect yourself with shields or barriers when necessary.