What is the SI unit for absorbed radiation dose?

The SI unit for absorbed radiation dose is the gray (Gy). The gray measures the amount of ionizing radiation energy deposited in a mass of tissue. Specifically, one gray is defined as the absorption of one joule of radiation energy by one kilogram of matter. This unit is crucial in radiology and radiation therapy as it quantifies the energy transferred to biological tissues, which is essential for assessing potential biological effects of radiation exposure.

The significance of the gray lies in its relation to biological effects. It is used in evaluating patient exposure and planning treatments, ensuring an effective dose is delivered while minimizing risks. Understanding the gray is fundamental for healthcare professionals involved in radiology, as it helps in making informed decisions regarding patient safety and treatment efficacy.

Other units, like the sievert (Sv), rad, and coulomb (C), represent different concepts. The sievert measures the biological effect of radiation and takes into account the type of radiation and its impact on human tissue. The rad is an older unit that has largely been replaced by the gray in contemporary practice. The coulomb, on the other hand, is a unit of electric charge and is not relevant to measuring radiation dose. Thus, recognizing the gray as the SI unit underscores its importance in measuring and