ARRT Radiation and Safety 5

Question 1

Which of the following ionizing radiation types has the highest relative biological effectiveness (RBE)?

Accepted Answer

Alpha particles

Answer

Alpha particles have a high RBE (up to 20) because their dense ionization along a short track causes severe localized biological damage.

Question 2

What does the radiation weighting factor (W_R) account for in calculating equivalent dose?

Accepted Answer

The biological effectiveness of different types of radiation

Answer

The radiation weighting factor (W_R) reflects the relative biological effectiveness of different radiation types when calculating equivalent dose in Sieverts.

Question 3

Which of the following conditions is classified as a deterministic (non-stochastic) radiation effect?

Accepted Answer

Radiation-induced cataracts

Answer

Radiation-induced cataracts are a deterministic effect with a threshold dose; they occur with certainty above that threshold and severity increases with dose.

Question 4

A technologist must perform a portable chest X-ray at 80 kVp. To maximize distance for protection, they should:

Accepted Answer

Use the longest exposure cord or wireless trigger available

Answer

Using the longest possible exposure cord or wireless trigger allows the technologist to maximize their distance from the radiation source during the exposure.

Question 5

Primary radiation barriers in a radiographic room must protect against:

Accepted Answer

The primary (useful) beam

Answer

Primary barriers are designed to attenuate the primary (useful) X-ray beam and must be located where the unattenuated beam can strike.

ARRT - American Registry of Radiologic Technologists Practice Test

ARRT - American Registry of Radiologic Technologists Practice Test

ARRT Radiation and Safety 5