Which type of radiation primarily affects the lens of the eye?

X-ray radiation is primarily responsible for effects on the lens of the eye due to its capability to penetrate biological tissues. X-rays can cause ionization in cells and tissues, leading to potential damage, particularly in sensitive areas such as the lens, which is predisposed to radiation-induced cataracts. The lens of the eye is particularly susceptible to such damage because it is composed of cells that are capable of damage from radiation exposure, and its structure does not regenerate in the same way that other cell types might.

Gamma radiation, while also penetrating and capable of causing cellular damage, typically spreads out more in tissue and may not target the lens as specifically as X-rays. Alpha radiation, being charged and heavy, is primarily hazardous when ingested or inhaled and does not penetrate skin or tissues significantly, rendering it less impactful on the lens directly. Beta radiation can penetrate tissue to a certain extent but does not have the same level of focus on internal structures like the lens as X-rays do. Thus, among the forms of radiation presented, X-ray radiation is most closely associated with effects on the lens.