Physics Flashcards
When were x-rays discovered?
Nov 8, 1985
What is the only distinction between x-rays and gamma rays?
Their source.
X-rays are from electrons
Gamma are from the nucleus.
What is the velocity of electromagnetic radiation?
C (speed of light) = frequency(s) x wavelength (m)
What is the energy of an electromagnetic radiation?
Energy = Planck’s constant x (C/wavelength)
Otherwords: Energy is inversely proportional to wavelength.
Unit = eV or electron volts.
What is the amount of energy in an x-ray is needed to ionize something?
15eV
What is exposure to radiation measured in?
Roentgen
C/kg
What is the unit for absorbed dose?
Rad
Gray
1Gy = 100rads
The difference in tissue absorption is what make radiographs
Dose Equivalent is measured in?
Sieverts
Rem
1Sv = 100 rem
What is the difference between deterministic effects and stochastic effects?
Deterministic - Has a threshold.
Stochastic - No dose, can happen at any time.
What is the #1 example of deterministic effects?
Cataracts
What is the maximum permissible dose?
The maximum absorbed dose that can be delievered to the whole body or a organ still be safe.
What is the primary international body focusing on protection against ionizing radiation?
International Commission on Radilogical Protection (ICRP)
Non-governmental.
Provides recommendations.
What is the whole body limit recommended by the ICRP?
20 mSv per year, averaged over 5 years and no one year should exceed 50mSv.
What is the governing body of the USA radiation protection?
National Council on Radiation Protection (NCRP)
THIS BODY RECOMMENDS.. no enforcement power!
What is the recommended whole-body limit set by NCRP?
50mSv per year with a lifetime accumulation not exceeding 10mSv.
No one under 18 should have occupational exposure.
What is the max monthly exposure for a fetus?
0.5mSv
Max radiation exposure to the general public (no including diagnostic imaging and radiation therapy)?
1mSv (0.1 rem)
What is the largest contributor to the general population due to background radiation?
Radon gas
What caused the largest increase in exposure to ionizing radiation in the general public of the USA?
CT scans.
Who defined ALARA?
National Regulatory Commission (NRC)
What are the three variables that affect ALARA or dose?
Distance
Shielding
Time