Which type of radiation can penetrate skin and possibly cause burns?

The type of radiation that can penetrate the skin and possibly cause burns is ionizing radiation. This form of radiation has sufficient energy to remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, leading to various biological effects, including thermal burns. Ionizing radiation includes X-rays and gamma rays, which can penetrate tissues and cells, potentially damaging DNA and causing cellular dysfunction or death.

Ionizing radiation poses a risk because it can penetrate deep into the skin and is associated with higher-energy levels compared to non-ionizing radiation types. As a result, exposure can lead to significant health risks, including the potential for burns, radiation sickness, or an increased risk of cancer over time. Understanding the properties of ionizing radiation and its ability to cause burns is crucial, especially in fields such as medical imaging, radiation therapy, and safety practices in environments where such radiation is present.