Radiation dose

Radiation dose refers to the amount of radiation energy absorbed by an object or person. It is a fundamental concept in the fields of radiology, nuclear physics, and radiation protection. The measurement of radiation dose is critical in assessing the potential health risks associated with exposure to radiation.

Types of Radiation Dose

There are several types of radiation dose, including:

• Absorbed dose: This is the amount of radiation energy absorbed per unit mass of an object or tissue. It is measured in grays (Gy).

• Equivalent dose: This takes into account the different biological effects of different types of radiation. It is measured in sieverts (Sv).

• Effective dose: This is a measure of the overall risk posed by uneven radiation exposure to different parts of the body. It is also measured in sieverts.

Measurement of Radiation Dose

Radiation dose is measured using devices such as dosimeters and Geiger-Mueller counters. These devices detect and measure the intensity of radiation.

Health Effects of Radiation Dose

The health effects of radiation dose can vary greatly depending on the type and amount of radiation, the duration of exposure, and the part of the body exposed. Effects can range from no noticeable symptoms, to radiation sickness, to increased risk of cancer.

Radiation Dose in Medicine

In medicine, radiation dose is a critical factor in procedures such as X-ray imaging, computed tomography (CT) scans, and radiation therapy. Careful management of radiation dose is necessary to ensure the benefits of these procedures outweigh the potential risks.

See Also

• Radiation poisoning
• Radiation protection
• Radiation therapy
• Radiation Protection Dosimetry