Compton scattering is the most common interaction between X-rays and human tissues, where an X-ray photon transfers part of its energy to an electron, resulting in a scattered photon and an ionized electron.
High LET radiation (e.g., alpha particles) is more effective at causing biological damage, including DNA strand breaks, because it deposits energy over a shorter distance and is more likely to cause direct ionization of biological molecules.
Lead shielding is used to protect surrounding tissues from unnecessary radiation exposure during radiological procedures by absorbing X-rays and reducing scatter radiation.
Deterministic effects (e.g., radiation burns, cataracts) are more likely to occur after high doses of radiation delivered in a short period, where the tissue is unable to repair effectively.
Stochastic effects (e.g., cancer) occur randomly and the probability increases with dose, while deterministic effects (e.g., skin burns) have a threshold dose, and their severity increases with higher radiation exposure.
