RADIOLOGICAL FUNDEMENTALS

Atom:
Protons, Neutrons, and Electrons.

Elements:
Identified by the number of Protons.

Isotopes:
Atoms of the same element with different numbers of Neutrons.

Radioactivity:
The spontaneous decay (or “disintegration”) of unstable (or “radioactive”) atoms that emit radiation as they attempt to become stable.

Radioactive Half-Life:
The amount of time it takes for one-half of the radioactive material to decay.

Radioactive Material:
Any material that undergoes radioactive decay.

Radioactive Contamination:
Uncontained or uncontrolled radioactive material. Measured in dps, cpm, or dpm.

External and Internal Radiation Hazards:
External hazards are outside the body; whereas internal hazards are inside the body.

Measuring Radiation:
Radiation is measured in units of Roentgen, rad, rem, and sievert. The rem and sievert are used to express biological damage.

Radiation Dose Rate:
The rate at which radiation dose is emitted.

Radioactivity:
The amount of radioactive material present. Measured in Bq or curies.