Authors: Richard Kroncke, Gabriel Lewis, Brett Steck

Mentors: Ozgur Yavuzcetin, Juk Bhattacharyya

Radon is produced by the parent element uranium. Uranium initially decays into radium, and finally radium decays into radon atoms. In the conversion from radium to radon, two protons and two neutrons, also known as alpha particles, are lost. These elements are considered radioactive, because they are continually decaying. However, it is the decay of radon into other elements that pose the greatest risk. Elements such as polonium, become trapped in lungs and can cause physiological issues. These issues are a major concern. Radon is common in older igneous rocks such as basalt. The abundance of radon in basalt is a natural concern given the geological characteristics of Iceland. The vesicles and fractures that compose assault allow for feasible emission of radon particles into the surrounding soil and air. The purpose of this research project is to analyze the abundance of radon particles around geothermal areas located around Iceland. Through the collection and assessment of this data the severity of the amount of radon can be determined, which can influence safety protocols and mitigation efforts for the native Icelanders. In tandem with detecting radon in Iceland we will bring a Geiger counter to detect gamma radiation in basalt samples and background radiation data in Iceland. Gamma radiation in basalt is due to traces of thorium, we will measure radiation near various basaltic formations and geothermal springs. This will be compared to background radiation to determine the amount of gamma radiation emitted.