Dirty bomb
A weapon that uses conventional explosives to disperse radioactive material, contaminating an area without producing a nuclear explosion.
Radiological dispersal device: A device intended to spread radioactive material to contaminate people, places, or objects. Dirty bombs are the explosive subtype of this broader device category.
Acute radiation syndrome: A severe illness caused by receiving a high dose of penetrating radiation over a short time. It is possible after intense exposure, though typical dirty-bomb scenarios are unlikely to cause widespread cases.
Radioactive decay: The spontaneous transformation of unstable atomic nuclei, often accompanied by radiation. The source’s decay determines its radiation emissions and how its activity changes over time.
Nuclear weapon: A weapon that releases explosive energy through nuclear fission, fusion, or both. A nuclear weapon produces a nuclear explosion; a dirty bomb uses conventional explosives.
Radiological contamination: The presence of radioactive substances on or within people, objects, or environments. Contamination, rather than nuclear blast, is the weapon’s defining hazard.
Cancer risk from ionizing radiation: The increased probability of cancer associated with exposure to ionizing radiation. Long-term health concern depends on dose, while fear can exceed the likely radiological harm.
Radioactive source: Material containing radionuclides that emit ionizing radiation. A dispersal device requires a source, often from industrial, medical, or research use.
Improvised explosive device: A nonstandard explosive device assembled from readily available components. An ordinary improvised explosive causes blast and fragmentation without radioactive contamination.
Radioactive aerosol: Radioactive particles or droplets suspended in air. Explosives can disperse radioactive material as airborne particles that may be inhaled or settle elsewhere.
Decontamination: The removal or reduction of hazardous substances from people, objects, or environments. Cleanup may require removing contaminated materials and controlling radioactive dust.