Define the term 'radiobiology.'

The term 'radiobiology' specifically refers to the study of the effects of ionizing radiation on biological systems. This field examines how living organisms, from single-celled bacteria to complex multi-cellular species like humans, respond to radiation exposure at cellular and molecular levels. This can include understanding how DNA is damaged by radiation, the mechanisms of biological repair processes, and the potential consequences, such as mutations, carcinogenesis, or effects on health.

Ionizing radiation is high-energy radiation that has enough energy to remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, which can lead to cellular and molecular damage. Therefore, the focus on ionizing radiation distinguishes radiobiology from other fields that may study non-ionizing radiation or radiation in specific contexts like industrial applications or safety protocols.