Radiation can be ionizing or non-ionizing. Ionizing radiation has enough energy to remove electrons from atoms and molecules and includes alpha particles, beta particles, gamma rays, x-rays, and neutrons. Non-ionizing radiation does not have enough energy to ionize but can excite electrons. Exposure to ionizing radiation is measured in units of sieverts which account for the biological effects. Acute exposure can cause immediate effects while long term low dose exposure increases cancer risks. Exposure limits aim to prevent harm from occupational and environmental sources of radiation.