In radiation protection terminology, the sievert (Sv) is the SI unit of:
- A Absorbed dose
- B Equivalent and effective dose, incorporating radiation and tissue weighting factors ✓
- C Activity of a radioactive source
- D Exposure measured in air
Correct answer: B. Equivalent and effective dose, incorporating radiation and tissue weighting factors
Explanation
The sievert quantifies equivalent dose (absorbed dose multiplied by the radiation weighting factor) and effective dose (further weighted by tissue sensitivity), allowing comparison of biological risk across exposures. The gray measures physical energy deposited per kilogram regardless of biological effect, the becquerel counts nuclear disintegrations per second, and air kerma or roentgen expresses exposure. Confusing gray with sievert is a classic exam trap.
Reference: Khan, The Physics of Radiation Therapy, 6th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.