Radiation Safety Practice Exam

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Study for the Radiation Safety Exam. Test your knowledge with multiple choice questions, each equipped with hints and explanations. Prepare effectively and confidently!

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What is the special unit for dose equivalent called?

Gray
Becquerel
REM
Sievert

The correct answer is: REM

The special unit for dose equivalent is referred to as the REM, which stands for roentgen equivalent man. This unit quantifies the biological effects of ionizing radiation on human tissues, taking into account the type of radiation and its energy. The REM provides a way to assess the potential health risks of exposure to radiation by incorporating the factor of biological effectiveness, allowing for comparisons across different types of radiation, such as alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays. In the context of radiation safety, using the REM helps professionals evaluate exposure limits and ensure adequate protection for individuals who work with or around radiation sources. While the Gray measures absorbed dose in terms of energy deposited in tissue, and the Sievert serves as the SI unit for dose equivalent, the REM is still recognized and used, especially in certain contexts and historical standards.