How does the intensity of radiation change with an increase in distance from the source, according to the inverse square law?

The inverse square law describes how the intensity of radiation changes as you move further away from a radiation source. According to this principle, the intensity of radiation is inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the source. This means that if the distance from the source is doubled, the intensity of radiation decreases to one-fourth of its original value. This significant decrease in intensity occurs because the same amount of radiation is spread over a larger area as distance increases.

In practical terms, this law highlights the importance of distance in radiation safety and exposure; as a person moves away from a radiation source, their exposure decreases significantly, thus mitigating the risks associated with radiation. Understanding the inverse square law is crucial for professionals working in radiology, as it influences the positioning of equipment, patient placement, and safety protocols to minimize unnecessary exposure.