What does the term "irradiated" refer to?

The term "irradiated" refers specifically to exposure to radiation. In the context of radiation protection and safety, it describes the process where an object or person is subjected to radiation from an external source. This can occur in various environments, such as medical settings where patients receive radiation therapy, or in industrial processes where materials are exposed to radiation for purposes like sterilization or testing.

Understanding this definition is crucial, as it emphasizes the nature of the interaction with radiation—namely, that it involves being subjected to radiation rather than any form of reduction, filtration, or safe storage of radiation. The other concepts, such as reducing radiation levels or filtering radiation, pertain to safety measures and practices aimed at minimizing exposure rather than the act of exposure itself.