Introduction to Radiation
The Texas Capitol building is made of pink Hill Country granite, which is known to be radioactive. This unique feature of the building has sparked curiosity among many, including Sarah Jones, who wondered if the granite at the Capitol is indeed radioactive.
What is Radiation?
Radiation is all around us and is a natural part of our environment. It occurs when unstable elements in the ground or in objects decay and release energy in the form of particles or waves. Not all radiation is harmful, and some types are even used in medical treatments, such as X-rays. However, high levels of radiation can be hazardous to human health.
The Radioactive Granite at the Capitol
The pink granite used to build the Texas Capitol is more radioactive than other types of granite. This is because it contains naturally occurring stores of uranium and thorium, which are unstable elements that emit radiation as they decay. The radiation emitted by these elements is in the form of radon gas, a colorless and odorless type of radiation called alpha radiation.
Understanding Radon Gas
Radon gas is the "safest" kind of radiation, as it can be blocked by a sheet of paper or human skin. However, when inhaled, radon gas can be harmful and increase the risk of lung cancer. The risk of radon exposure is higher in enclosed spaces with poor ventilation, such as basements. In Texas, basements are less common due to the difficult and expensive process of building them.
The Capitol’s Underground Extension
In 1989, an underground extension was built attached to the Capitol building. This extension is essentially a large basement, where radon gas can accumulate. State Senator Sarah Eckhardt’s office is located in this underground extension, and she jokingly attributed her feelings of being "beleaguered" to the potential radioactivity.
Testing for Radiation
Despite the potential risks, the Texas Department of State Health Services does not seem concerned about the radiation levels at the Capitol. They have conducted some sampling in the past and did not find any issues. However, they do not regularly test the Capitol for radon. To investigate further, a Geiger counter was used to measure the radiation levels at the Capitol. The results showed that the granite at the Capitol is more radioactive than average, but the levels were still within the normal range.
Radon Gas Testing
A radon test kit was left in Senator Eckhardt’s office over a weekend to measure the levels of radon gas. The results showed that there was not enough radon to get a proper reading. This suggests that the ventilation in the underground extension is sufficient to prevent the accumulation of radon gas.
Conclusion
The Texas Capitol building is indeed radioactive due to the pink Hill Country granite used in its construction. However, the levels of radiation are within the normal range, and the risk of harm is low. While it is essential to be aware of the potential risks of radiation, the Capitol building is safe for visitors and staff. The unique feature of the radioactive granite is an interesting aspect of the building’s history and architecture, and it continues to fascinate those who visit the Texas Capitol.
