In terms of distance, how does a person reduce exposure from a radioactive source?

Enhance your knowledge for the Radiation State Exam. Engage with flashcards and multiple-choice questions with detailed explanations and hints. Start your preparation today!

The principle behind reducing exposure to a radioactive source primarily revolves around the inverse square law of radiation. This law states that the intensity of radiation decreases with the square of the distance from the source. Therefore, by increasing the distance between oneself and the radioactive source, a person significantly reduces the amount of radiation they are subjected to.

For example, if you double the distance from a radioactive source, the radiation exposure is reduced to one-fourth of its original intensity. This distance-based reduction in exposure is a fundamental safety practice in radiation protection, emphasizing the importance of maintaining as much distance as possible from the source of radiation to minimize health risks.

The other options involve methods that do not effectively leverage the distance principle for reducing exposure. Wearing protective gear can provide some level of shielding from radiation, but it does not reduce the intensity of radiation coming from the source itself. Rushing away may provide a quick escape but does not systematically ensure a safe distance is achieved, and standing close to the source would obviously increase radiation exposure rather than decrease it.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy