Which unit is equivalent to the traditional unit "REM"?

Prepare for the Radiation Protection Exam. Study with targeted flashcards and multiple-choice questions with explanations. Enhance your understanding and ace your test!

The traditional unit "REM," which stands for Röntgen Equivalent Man, is used to quantify the biological effect of ionizing radiation on human tissue. The unit is particularly focused on evaluating the risk associated with radiation exposure.

The correct answer, Sievert, serves as the SI (International System of Units) equivalent to the REM. One Sievert is defined as the biological effect of one joule of energy deposited in one kilogram of tissue, which corresponds to the concept of REM that reflects the potential harm to humans from different types of radiation. The conversion factor between REM and Sievert is straightforward: 1 REM is equal to 0.01 Sievert. This relationship highlights the importance of using the SI units in scientific communication and regulatory contexts.

The other options—Gray, Curie, and RAD—represent different aspects of radiation measurement. Gray measures the absorbed dose of radiation in a material, while Curie quantifies radioactivity, and RAD is another traditional unit that represents absorbed dose but does not account for the biological effect. Therefore, the Sievert is the most appropriate equivalent for REM, addressing the biological impact of radiation exposure on human health.

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