How can air quality influence radiation exposure?

Air quality plays a significant role in influencing radiation exposure, particularly through the presence of airborne radioactive contaminants. When air quality is poor, often due to particulate matter or other pollutants, it can enable higher concentrations of these radioactive substances to be present in the atmosphere. This is particularly critical in environments where there are natural sources of radiation, such as radon gas, which can accumulate in poorly ventilated indoor spaces.

In areas with high levels of airborne contaminants, the inhalation of radioactive particles can increase an individual's exposure to ionizing radiation, which may lead to health risks such as cancer over prolonged periods. Understanding the connection between air quality and radiation exposure is essential for effective public health strategies, especially in regions known for higher natural radioactivity or industrial processes that release radioactive materials into the air.

The other options, while related to environmental factors, do not directly address how air quality affects radiation exposure in the same manner. They may pertain to aspects of light levels, ventilation, or overall pollution levels, but they do not highlight the specific impact of airborne radioactive contaminants that directly lead to increased radiation exposure.