eli5 why does riding in an airplane cause radiation exposure? Does the airplane itself not block it?

Question

eli5 why does riding in an airplane cause radiation exposure? Does the airplane itself not block it?

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Answer 1

The atmosphere blocks most of the radiation from space. So if there’s less atmosphere above you, you’ll be exposed to more radiation. And the plane does block it. But you’ll still be exposed to slightly higher levels than when you’re on the ground.