ABSTRACT
Radiation is the emission or propagation of energy through space. Gamma rays are electromagnetic radiation, that is, the release of excess energy from the nucleus of an atom retained after radioactive decay. The absorption reaction can also result in a nuclide that is radioactive that will eventually decay itself, releasing more radiation. A common example of this at nuclear power reactors is neutron absorption by cobalt-59, a stable element, to create cobalt-60, which decays by beta decay and also releases two relatively high-energy gamma rays. External dose is the product of the radiation dose rate in a given area and the length of time spent in that area. Radiation dosimetry is the measurement of a person’s exposure, usually on an individual basis. Measurement of the change in the deflection of the fiber by the electric charge permits determination of radiation exposure and can be read by holding the dosimeter up to a light source looking down the tube.
