How are radiation doses measured?

Radiation doses are measured in units called sieverts (Sv).

Sieverts are used to measure the amount of radiation absorbed by a person or object. One sievert is equal to one joule of energy absorbed per kilogram of tissue. However, because this is a large amount of radiation, doses are usually measured in millisieverts (mSv) or microsieverts (μSv).

Radiation doses can be measured using a variety of instruments, including Geiger counters, thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs), and film badges. Geiger counters detect ionizing radiation by measuring the electrical charge produced when radiation interacts with a gas. TLDs and film badges use materials that become luminescent when exposed to radiation, allowing the dose to be measured after the material is heated or developed.

Radiation doses can also be estimated using mathematical models, which take into account factors such as the type of radiation, the distance from the source, and the time of exposure. These models are used to predict the potential health effects of radiation exposure, and to determine safe levels of exposure for workers in nuclear industries.

It is important to note that radiation doses can have different effects depending on the type of radiation and the part of the body that is exposed. For example, alpha particles are more damaging than beta or gamma radiation, and exposure to the thyroid gland can have different effects than exposure to the skin. Therefore, it is important to consider the specific circumstances of each exposure when assessing the potential health effects.