As we have learned, the human body is composed of approximately 80% of water, thus it is sometimes referred to as in an aqueous state (human body). Since we are primarily comprised of this molecule, when our body is exposed to radiation, most probably, the radiation will interact with the water molecules (indirect effect).
Radiolysis of water is defined as the dissociation action of water when irradiated. This is very important to learn so as to aid the radiobiologic research in identifying the extent of damage that a certain amount of radiation may incur in humans.
There are several stages that occur during this dissociation action water and they are listed below:
1. Initial Physical Stage – occurs in a matter of 10 to -16 second; this is where ionization occurs; energy is deposited in the cell and causes ionization in a molecule
2. Physico – Chemical Stage – occurs in a matter of 10 – -6 second; dissociation of ions and formation of free radicals occur
3. Chemical Stage – interaction of free radicals with other molecules in the body; hydrogen peroxide & hydroperoxyl (principal damaging products) are the most common type of free radicals that may occur
4. Biological Stage – occurs in tentas of minutes and/or years; considered to be late effects; the chemical reaction show up as effects in the individual; may result to early death of the cell, prevention/delay in cell division or permanent medication of the cell
