The maximum allowable radiation dose for recovery workers at the Fukushima nuclear plant in Japan was set to 100 mSv. A gastrointestinal (GI) tract X-ray is 5 mSv. The radiation exposure of a Fukushima worker is equivalent to how many GI tract X-rays?

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Identify the total radiation dose limit for the Fukushima worker, which is given as 100 mSv.

Step 2: Identify the radiation dose of a single GI tract X-ray, which is given as 5 mSv.

Step 3: To find the number of GI tract X-rays equivalent to the total radiation dose, set up a division problem where you divide the total radiation dose by the dose of one GI tract X-ray.

Step 4: Perform the division: divide 100 mSv by 5 mSv to find the number of GI tract X-rays.

Step 5: The result of the division will give you the number of GI tract X-rays equivalent to the total radiation dose.

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Radiation Dose Measurement

Radiation dose is measured in sieverts (Sv), with millisieverts (mSv) being a common subunit. It quantifies the biological effect of ionizing radiation on human tissue. Understanding this measurement is crucial for comparing different sources of radiation exposure, such as medical procedures and occupational limits.

Radiation Exposure Comparison

To compare different radiation exposures, one can use a ratio based on their respective doses. For instance, if one procedure delivers 5 mSv and another has a limit of 100 mSv, the number of times the first can fit into the second can be calculated. This concept is essential for understanding cumulative exposure limits and safety in radiation work.

Health Risks of Radiation

Exposure to ionizing radiation carries health risks, including increased chances of cancer and other illnesses. Regulatory bodies set exposure limits, like the 100 mSv for Fukushima workers, to minimize these risks. Understanding the health implications of radiation exposure helps in making informed decisions about safety and recovery in nuclear environments.

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