Radiation Safety Practice Exam

What does a RADIAC meter NOT typically detect?

1. Radioactive sources housed internally

2. Depleted uranium

3. Radium paint

4. Gamma radiation from open sources

The correct answer is: Radioactive sources housed internally

The response indicating that a RADIAC meter does not typically detect radioactive sources housed internally is accurate because these types of sources are often shielded or encapsulated in a way that prevents the detection of radiation outside of their containment. RADIAC meters are designed to measure radiation levels, particularly from sources that emit particles or waves that can escape easily, such as gamma radiation or beta particles. In contrast, the meter is capable of detecting radioactive materials like depleted uranium and radium paint, as these sources can emit detectable radiation. Depleted uranium, while denser and used in military applications, still emits gamma radiation that can be measured. Similarly, radium paint, which contains radioactive radium, emits alpha and beta particles that can be detected by such instruments. Gamma radiation from open sources is also detectable by RADIAC meters as they are specifically used for assessing environmental contamination and measuring radiation levels from sources that are not shielded or encased, allowing radiation to escape into the environment and be detected. Thus, the ability of RADIAC meters to detect gamma radiation from open sources and other radioactive materials further emphasizes their limitations in detecting sources that are housed internally and are effectively shielded.