How does increasing the distance from a radioactive source affect exposure rate?

Increasing the distance from a radioactive source significantly affects the exposure rate due to the inverse square law of radiation. This law states that the intensity of radiation exposure diminishes proportionately to the square of the distance from the source. In practical terms, this means that if you double the distance from the source, the exposure rate doesn't just halve; rather, it becomes one-fourth of what it was at the original distance. This reduction is critical for safety protocols and for understanding how to manage exposure to radioactive materials effectively.

Therefore, when you move farther away from the source of radiation, the exposure rate decreases dramatically, making it a fundamental concept in radiation protection strategies. This principle helps in designing safe environments for both workers and the public in areas where radiation sources might be present.