Radiation Safety Practice Exam

Which of the following is believed to be beneficial according to the hormesis effect?

1. High doses of radiation

2. Low-level exposures to ionizing radiation

3. Complete avoidance of radiation

4. Exposure only to non-ionizing radiation

The correct answer is: Low-level exposures to ionizing radiation

The hormesis effect refers to the phenomenon where low doses of a potentially harmful agent, such as ionizing radiation, can have beneficial effects on health or biological processes. This concept suggests that exposure to low levels of radiation may stimulate adaptive biological responses that can enhance cellular repair mechanisms, immune function, and overall health, counteracting the potential negative effects of higher doses. In the context of radiation safety, the belief in hormesis stands on the premise that while high doses of radiation are known to be harmful, low-level exposures can potentially trigger positive effects. This is contrary to traditional risk assessment models that assume a linear dose-response relationship, where any exposure is harmful. Therefore, the idea of low-level exposures promoting beneficial biological effects supports the option that is seen as beneficial according to the hormesis effect. The other options do not align with the hormesis concept. High doses of radiation are definitively harmful, complete avoidance of radiation does not leverage any potential benefits and focuses only on risk, and exposure to only non-ionizing radiation does not address the specific context of ionizing radiation where hormesis is often discussed.