What is the relationship between dose and exposure in radiation?

The correct relationship between dose and exposure in radiation is characterized by the understanding that dose refers to the amount of radiation energy absorbed by an object or person, typically expressed in units such as grays (Gy), while exposure refers to the amount of radiation ionization in a material, measured in coulombs per kilogram (C/kg).

In this context, the statement that dose is always less than exposure aligns with the principles of radiation measurement. The reason for this is that not all exposure results in the absorption of energy that contributes to the biological effect; some radiation may pass through without being absorbed. Hence, although exposure quantifies the radiation present, it doesn’t directly equate to the amount of energy absorbed.

The other options fail to represent the nuanced relationship accurately. For example, stating that dose is always greater than exposure would be misleading, as it is quite common for the dose to be lower than the exposure due to differing absorption qualities of biological tissues and the environment. Additionally, the notion that exposure affects dose but not vice versa overlooks that the dose also depends on factors like material properties and geometry. Finally, claiming that dose is independent of exposure disregards the intrinsic relationship where exposure can influence the dose, though they are not the same.

Thus, understanding that