What is the primary method to protect against radiation exposure?

The primary method to protect against radiation exposure involves three key principles known as time, distance, and shielding.

Limiting time refers to reducing the duration of exposure to radiation. The less time spent near a source of radiation, the less dose an individual receives. This is a fundamental strategy in radiation safety, emphasizing the importance of efficiently managing time spent near radioactive materials or areas.

Increasing distance is another effective means of protection. Radiation intensity decreases with increasing distance from the source due to the geometrical distribution of radiation. By staying further away from a radioactive source, the amount of radiation exposure significantly diminishes, which is an essential concept in radiation protection practices.

Using shielding involves placing a barrier between the radiation source and the person. Different materials can effectively shield various types of radiation; for example, lead is commonly used to shield against gamma rays, while plastic or glass can provide sufficient protection against beta particles. The effectiveness of shielding material depends on factors such as the type and energy of the radiation.

Other options do not directly address effective radiation protection strategies. Wearing lighter clothing does not provide significant protection against radiation; instead, appropriate protective clothing would be necessary depending on the type and level of radiation threat present. Staying indoors may provide some protection from ambient radiation, but it