1. What is the Inverse Square Law for Radiation?

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 radiation protection and safety.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Inverse Square Law formula:

Where:

• \( dose \) — Calculated dose rate at distance r
• \( dose0 \) — Reference dose rate at distance r0
• \( r0 \) — Reference distance from source
• \( r \) — New distance from source

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

3. Importance of Inverse Square Law

Details: This law is crucial for radiation safety calculations, determining safe working distances, and designing shielding in medical and industrial applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the reference dose rate (dose0) and reference distance (r0), then the new distance (r) you want to calculate for. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Does this law apply to all types of radiation?
A: It applies to point sources of electromagnetic radiation (e.g., gamma rays, x-rays) in a vacuum or air. It may not apply perfectly to extended sources or in scattering media.

Q2: Why is it called "inverse square"?
A: Because the intensity decreases with the square of the distance - at double the distance, the intensity is 1/4; at triple the distance, it's 1/9, etc.

Q3: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It's mathematically exact for ideal point sources in non-absorbing media. Real-world factors like absorption and scattering may require additional corrections.

Q4: What units should I use?
A: The units for dose0 and dose must match, and distances must be in the same units (typically meters).

Q5: Can this be used for radiation protection?
A: Yes, it's fundamental for calculating safe working distances and exposure times in radiation safety.