Which units are used to measure dose equivalent?

Dose equivalent is a measure used to express the biological effect of radiation exposure on human tissue, considering both the type of radiation and the amount absorbed. The correct answer, which identifies the units used to measure dose equivalent, is Sievert.

The Sievert (Sv) is the SI unit for dose equivalent and reflects a standard method to represent the potential health risk from radiation exposure. It incorporates a quality factor to account for the different types of radiation, making it a comprehensive measure of biological impact.

While Rad and Rem are also units associated with measuring doses of radiation, they represent absorbed doses and dose equivalents in older systems. Rad (radiation absorbed dose) measures the amount of energy deposited in tissue, and Rem (roentgen equivalent man) is an older term used for dose equivalent, similar to Sievert. However, in modern practice and regulatory contexts, the Sievert is favored because SI units (System International) are standardized and widely adopted internationally for clarity and consistency.

Thus, while Rem is functionally equivalent to Sievert (1 Rem = 0.01 Sv), and Rad can be converted to dose equivalent under specific conditions, the current standard is the Sievert. Therefore, recognizing Sievert as the correct answer emphasizes current conventions in