1. What is the Inverse Square Law?

The Inverse Square Law states that the intensity of radiation is inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the source. This principle is fundamental in radiology for radiation protection and dose calculations.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Inverse Square Law equation:

Where:

• \( I1 \) — Initial radiation intensity (mR/h)
• \( I2 \) — New radiation intensity (mR/h)
• \( d1 \) — Initial distance from source (meters)
• \( d2 \) — New distance from source (meters)

Explanation: The equation shows how radiation intensity decreases as the distance from the source increases, following the inverse square relationship.

3. Importance in Radiology

Details: The Inverse Square Law is crucial for radiation safety calculations, determining safe working distances, and predicting exposure rates at different positions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the initial intensity (I1) in mR/h, initial distance (d1) in meters, and new distance (d2) in meters. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the inverse square law important in radiology?
A: It helps predict radiation exposure at different distances, essential for radiation protection and safety planning.

Q2: Does this law apply to all types of radiation?
A: It applies to point sources of electromagnetic radiation (x-rays, gamma rays) in a vacuum or air with minimal scattering.

Q3: When does the inverse square law not apply?
A: It doesn't apply perfectly in scattering media, for extended sources, or at very short distances from the source.

Q4: How does distance affect radiation exposure?
A: Doubling the distance from a source reduces exposure to 1/4; tripling reduces it to 1/9 of the original intensity.

Q5: What units should I use for distance?
A: The calculator uses meters, but any consistent distance unit will work as long as both d1 and d2 use the same units.