Since then, these studies have spread worldwide and are still in progress. Rn decays by the emission of an alpha particle and gamma rays. The decay products are also radioactive, emitting alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays. Because radon is chemically inert and does not attach to surfaces, the implications of its exposure are difficult to evaluate. However, the charged decay products can electrostatically attach to surfaces.
Most progeny immediately attach to aerosols.
The ratio of attached progeny to unattached progeny is important in dose calculations because as the ratio increases, the radiation dose to lung surfaces increases. Other factors affecting the lung dose include the ratio of 222 Rn to its progeny, the breathing patterns, lung characteristics, gender, and age of the individual exposed. Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection Data provided to Connecticut Department of Public health in May of 1998. Keane, A.T. and C.W. Mays. Radiation Protection Dosimetry, 1987.