How does electromagnetic radiation affect the body?

1 Answer
Jun 17, 2018

It depends on the energy level.

Explanation:

"Electromagnetic radiation" is not a particular item - it is the whole spectrum of energy transfer by waves, from sound to microwaves.

Sufficient light radiation causes sunburn and can also lead to skin cancers (melanoma). Excessive microwave or X-ray exposure will destroy cells.

As with chemical agents, whatever the source is, the benefit or toxicity is a function of the "dose", not the form. We are surrounded and exposed to natural electromagnetic radiation every day of our lives. We also add exposure from man-made applications, from home stereos and cell phones to medical imaging, microwave cooking, radio transmissions and power transmission lines.