Calculating the Equivalent Dose Rate for an Unprotected Radiation Worker

In summary, an unprotected radiation worker unknowingly enters a room containing an unshielded Co-60 γ source with an activity of 2.0 × 104 MBq. The source is encapsulated in a material that filters out β emissions, but has no significant effect on the γ emissions. The worker is standing 6.0 m away from the source, which is assumed to be a point source. Using the formula [factor that takes units and absorption probability into account] * [activity of the source] * [released energy per decay] / [distance squared], the equivalent dose rate delivered to the worker's position is calculated to be approximately 190 µSv/h.
  • #1
melissaaa
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Homework Statement



An unprotected radiation worker walks into a room which she knows is sometimes
used to store high activity sources. She is unaware that, on that particular day, it
contains an unshielded Co-60 γ source. The source is encapsulated in a material which
filters out β emissions, but with negligible reduction to the γ emissions. The activity
of the source is 2.0 × 104
MBq. Each decay releases two γ photons with individual
energies 1.17 MeV and 1.33 MeV - a total photon energy E = 2.50 MeV per decay.
She is standing 6.0 m from the source. Assume the source is approximately a point
source.
(a) Calculate the equivalent dose rate (in µSv/h) delivered to the position of the
worker

Homework Equations



I don't know which equation to use

The Attempt at a Solution



I didn't understand how to do the question but I checked the answers and I don't understand how they did this:

H [µSv/h] = 0.14 × 2 ×104 ( MBq) ×(2.50 MeV)/ (6 m)^2
=194 µSv / h
≈190 µSv / h
 
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  • #2
This is just [factor that takes units and absorption probability into account] * [activity of the source] * [released energy per decay] / [distance squared]. You should find this formula in your book/script/... Which part is unclear?
 

Related to Calculating the Equivalent Dose Rate for an Unprotected Radiation Worker

1. What is equivalent dose rate?

Equivalent dose rate is a measure of the amount of radiation that a person is exposed to over a specific period of time. It takes into account the type of radiation and the biological effects it has on the body.

2. How is equivalent dose rate measured?

Equivalent dose rate is measured using specialized instruments called dosimeters, which detect and measure the amount of radiation in a given area or on a person's body. The units of measurement are usually in sieverts (Sv) or millisieverts (mSv).

3. What factors affect equivalent dose rate?

The equivalent dose rate can be affected by a number of factors including the type of radiation, the distance from the source of radiation, and the shielding or protective measures in place. It can also be affected by the amount of time spent in the area and the individual's body position or orientation.

4. Why is equivalent dose rate important to monitor?

Equivalent dose rate is important to monitor because it helps to assess the potential health risks associated with exposure to radiation. It is especially crucial for those who work in environments with high levels of radiation, as it can help to determine safe exposure levels and appropriate protective measures.

5. How can equivalent dose rate be reduced?

Equivalent dose rate can be reduced by implementing proper safety protocols, such as using protective equipment and limiting the amount of time spent in areas with high levels of radiation. Additionally, distance from the source of radiation and the use of shielding can also help to reduce equivalent dose rate.

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