Radiological weapons, often referred to as dirty bombs, combine conventional explosives with radioactive materials. Their primary purpose is to disperse radioactive substances over a wide area, causing contamination and panic rather than mass destruction. While they are not nuclear weapons, the fear and disruption they create can have significant psychological and social impacts. These weapons are considered a form of radiological dispersal device (RDD) and can be made from materials found in medical or industrial sources. The use of radiological weapons is prohibited under various international treaties, as they pose serious health risks and long-term environmental damage.