What is radon?

Radon is a naturally occurring, colorless, and odorless gas that is produced from the radioactive decay of uranium found in soil, rock, and water. As uranium breaks down, it releases radium, which further decays to radon. This gas can infiltrate homes and buildings through cracks in foundations and other openings, making it a concern for indoor air quality and a potential health hazard due to its radioactive properties.

This understanding emphasizes radon’s unique characteristics and its origins from uranium and radium decay, highlighting its status as a gas rather than a solid or liquid heavy metal, a chemical compound, or a biological organism like mold. Recognizing radon’s nature and risks is crucial for environmental health specialists tasked with assessing and mitigating indoor air quality issues.