Quality factor

Definition

Quality factor (QF) is a dimensionless factor used in radiological protection to account for the effectiveness of different types of ionizing radiation in causing biological damage. It is used to convert absorbed dose (measured in grays) into equivalent dose (measured in sieverts).

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Quality factor varies depending on the type and energy of radiation; for example, alpha particles have a higher quality factor than beta particles.
2. Quality factors are essential for calculating the equivalent dose, which helps assess potential health risks from exposure to various kinds of ionizing radiation.
3. The quality factor for x-rays, gamma rays, and beta particles is typically set at 1, while alpha particles can have a quality factor as high as 20.
4. Quality factors are defined by international organizations such as the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP).
5. Understanding quality factors is crucial for developing safety protocols in medical applications involving radiation therapy or imaging.

Review Questions

• What role does the quality factor play in converting absorbed dose to equivalent dose?
• Why do alpha particles have a higher quality factor compared to beta particles?
• How does the quality factor affect the calculation of potential health risks from ionizing radiation?

Related terms

Absorbed Dose:

The amount of energy deposited by ionizing radiation per unit mass of tissue, measured in grays (Gy).

Equivalent Dose:

A measure that accounts for the type of radiation received and its biological effect, calculated by multiplying the absorbed dose by the quality factor and measured in sieverts (Sv).

Ionizing Radiation:

Radiation with enough energy to remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, creating ions; includes alpha particles, beta particles, x-rays, and gamma rays.