Human exposure to radiation is typically measured in which unit?

Human exposure to radiation is typically measured in REM (Roentgen Equivalent Man). The REM is a unit that takes into account the biological effects of different types of radiation, adjusting for their potential to cause harm to human tissue.

This unit is especially important in health physics and radiation protection contexts, as it helps quantify the risk associated with exposure to varying types of radiation, including alpha, beta, and gamma radiation. The REM allows for a more accurate assessment of the potential health impact compared to simply measuring absorbed dose, which is what other units like RAD (Radiation Absorbed Dose) and Gy (Gray) represent.

Understanding this distinction underscores the importance of using REM when evaluating health risks associated with radiation exposure, enabling more informed decisions regarding safety protocols and exposure limits. The Sievert is another unit related to radiation and is equivalent to REM, but it is more commonly used in the context of international standards, thus making REM more recognizable in traditional contexts of human radiation exposure measurement.