Abstract: Nuclear radiation is ionizing radiation, in terms of particulates and electromagnetic radiation emitted from atomic nuclei in various nuclear processes, e.g., nuclear fission, radioactive decay. Hit of nuclear radiation on matter results in the excitation and ionizing events. The major types of nuclear radiation include: α particle, β particle, γ-rays and neutrons. The major characteristics of physics and biophysics of nuclear radiation, detriment on human, and the protection principal were discussed. The severity and /or risk frequency of nuclear radiation detriment on living organisms are closely associated with radiation quality, absorbed dose and dose-rate.

Key words: nuclear radiation, biological effect, radiation detriment, carcinogenesis, radiological protection