Radiation Safety Practice Exam

What is the type of exposure that occurs over an extended period of time and usually refers to a lower level of exposure?

1. Acute exposure

2. Chronic exposure

3. Continuous exposure

4. Sudden exposure

The correct answer is: Chronic exposure

Chronic exposure is characterized by prolonged exposure to a low level of radiation or another harmful agent over an extended period of time. This type of exposure is often contrasted with acute exposure, which involves a high level of radiation over a short duration. In chronic exposure scenarios, the cumulative effects can lead to health issues, but the immediate impact may be less apparent compared to acute situations. Understanding chronic exposure is crucial in radiation safety because it emphasizes the importance of monitoring and minimizing long-term risks associated with low-level exposure. This is particularly relevant in environments such as hospitals or industries where workers might be exposed to radiation consistently over a workday or workweek. Continuous exposure, while similar, typically refers to uninterrupted exposure without breaks, which may not necessarily imply a lower level of exposure. Sudden exposure, on the other hand, suggests an unexpected burst of exposure, differing fundamentally from the gradual nature of chronic exposure.