How is Radon formed?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is formed through the decay of radium, specifically radium-226. Radium itself is a product of the decay of uranium, which is found in soil, rock, and water. As radium decays, it releases radon gas, which can accumulate in enclosed spaces, particularly in basements or poorly ventilated areas. This process is part of the natural decay chain of uranium, where radium acts as an intermediate step.

The formation of radon is significant in environmental health due to its associations with indoor air quality and potential health risks, particularly lung cancer from long-term exposure. Understanding the origin of radon is crucial for addressing the concerns related to its presence in homes and buildings, making the information about its formation from radium particularly relevant for environmental specialists and sanitarians.