1.
During the process of radioactive decay, what is another name for the electromagnetic force that causes protons to tear apart the nucleus of the atom?
Correct Answer
A. Coulomb.
Explanation
The correct answer is Coulomb. During the process of radioactive decay, the electromagnetic force that causes protons to tear apart the nucleus of the atom is referred to as the Coulomb force. This force is responsible for the repulsion between positively charged protons in the nucleus, leading to the instability and eventual decay of the atom.
2.
Which statement best describes an alpha particle?
Correct Answer
B. Heavy and slow.
Explanation
An alpha particle is a type of particle that consists of two protons and two neutrons, making it heavy compared to other particles. It is also relatively slow-moving compared to other particles. This is because alpha particles have a positive charge and are attracted to negatively charged particles, causing them to move at a slower speed. Therefore, the statement "Heavy and slow" best describes an alpha particle.
3.
Which particle is considered the most ionizing?
Correct Answer
C. AlpHa
Explanation
Alpha particles are considered the most ionizing because they are relatively large and carry a double positive charge. This means that they have a high mass and energy, allowing them to collide with and remove electrons from atoms more easily than other particles. As a result, alpha particles cause more ionization and damage to biological tissues, making them more harmful than other types of radiation.
4.
In beta plus (B+) decay, the parent nucleus changes a
Correct Answer
A. Proton into a neutron and gives off a positively charged particle.
Explanation
In beta plus (B+) decay, a proton in the parent nucleus is converted into a neutron. This process is accompanied by the emission of a positively charged particle, which is called a positron. This decay occurs when the parent nucleus has too many protons compared to the number of neutrons, and it aims to achieve a more stable ratio of protons to neutrons. The emission of a positron helps to balance the charge in the decay process, as the conversion of a proton into a neutron reduces the positive charge by one unit.
5.
What can be used to classify a neutron?
Correct Answer
C. Speed.
Explanation
Neutrons can be classified based on their speed. Speed refers to the velocity at which the neutrons are moving. Neutrons can have different speeds depending on their energy levels. This classification is important in various scientific fields, such as nuclear physics and materials science, as it helps in understanding the behavior and interactions of neutrons with other particles and materials.
6.
What is the process by which an alpha particle gains kinetic energy?
Correct Answer
B. Excitation.
Explanation
Excitation is the process by which an alpha particle gains kinetic energy. During excitation, an atom or molecule absorbs energy, causing its electrons to move to higher energy levels. This increase in energy results in the alpha particle gaining kinetic energy. Ionization, on the other hand, refers to the process of removing an electron from an atom or molecule, which does not necessarily involve a gain in kinetic energy. Bremmstrahlung and Compton scattering are both processes related to the interaction of photons with matter and do not directly involve the gain of kinetic energy by an alpha particle.
7.
The linear energy transfer (LET) of a beta particle is lower than that of an alpha particle because of its
Correct Answer
C. Smaller mass and higher speed.
Explanation
The linear energy transfer (LET) of a particle refers to the amount of energy transferred per unit length as it passes through a medium. In the case of beta particles, they have a smaller mass compared to alpha particles and they also travel at higher speeds. Both of these factors contribute to a lower LET for beta particles. The smaller mass means that beta particles have less momentum and are less likely to cause significant damage to the medium they pass through. Additionally, the higher speed of beta particles means that they spend less time interacting with the medium, resulting in a lower energy transfer per unit length.
8.
Which type of radiation poses the most serious external hazard because of its high penetrating ability?
Correct Answer
B. Gamma.
Explanation
Gamma radiation poses the most serious external hazard because of its high penetrating ability. Unlike alpha and beta radiation, gamma radiation consists of high-energy photons that can easily pass through materials and penetrate deep into the body. This makes gamma radiation extremely dangerous as it can cause damage to cells and tissues, leading to various health effects such as radiation sickness, DNA damage, and an increased risk of cancer.
9.
Which can be used to calculate the amount of activity at any point in time, given the activity at another point in time?
Correct Answer
D. Radioactive half-life.
Explanation
The radioactive half-life can be used to calculate the amount of activity at any point in time, given the activity at another point in time. The half-life is the time it takes for half of the radioactive material to decay, so by knowing the initial activity and the half-life, we can determine the activity at any future or past time. This is a fundamental concept in radioactivity and is used in various fields such as medicine, environmental science, and nuclear physics.
10.
Radioactive materials are cleared from the body at a predictable rate; this is known as
Correct Answer
C. Biological half-life.
Explanation
Radioactive materials are cleared from the body at a predictable rate, which is known as the biological half-life. This refers to the time it takes for half of the radioactive material to be eliminated from the body through natural processes such as metabolism or excretion. The biological half-life varies depending on the specific radioactive substance and can be used to determine the duration of potential health risks associated with exposure to radiation.
11.
Which term is the most often seen exposure unit for ionizing radiation?
Correct Answer
C. Roentgen.
Explanation
The most often seen exposure unit for ionizing radiation is the Roentgen. The Roentgen is a unit of measurement for the amount of ionizing radiation that causes the ionization of one cubic centimeter of air. It is commonly used in the field of radiology and radiation protection to quantify the amount of radiation exposure. The other options, Curie, Coulomb, and Becquerel, are units of measurement for radioactivity and do not directly measure the amount of ionizing radiation exposure.
12.
Because most radiation work exposures are very small, the exposure rate most often used is
Correct Answer
C. Milliroentgen per hour.
Explanation
The correct answer is milliroentgen per hour. This is because most radiation work exposures are very small and therefore it is more appropriate to use a smaller unit of measurement, such as milliroentgen, to accurately quantify the exposure rate. Additionally, using the unit per hour allows for a standardized measurement over a specific time period, which is important when monitoring and assessing radiation exposure in the workplace.
13.
Which type of ionizing radiation has been found more effective in producing cataracts?
Correct Answer
D. Neutrons
Explanation
Neutrons have been found to be more effective in producing cataracts compared to other types of ionizing radiation. Neutrons are high-energy particles that can penetrate deep into tissues, causing damage to the lens of the eye and leading to the development of cataracts. This is because neutrons have a higher mass and are more likely to collide with atoms in the lens, causing ionization and subsequent damage. Beta particles, alpha particles, and X-rays also have ionizing properties, but they are less effective in producing cataracts compared to neutrons.
14.
When comparing the relative toxicity of various radiations, what is the result of a higher rate of linear energy transfer (LET)?
Correct Answer
A. More effective in producing biological damage.
Explanation
A higher rate of linear energy transfer (LET) refers to the ability of radiation to transfer energy to surrounding tissues as it passes through them. When the LET is higher, it means that the radiation is more likely to interact with and transfer energy to the cells and DNA in the body. This increased energy transfer leads to more biological damage, making the radiation more effective in producing harm to living organisms.
15.
Which type of cells, if genetically altered by ionizing radiation, might the offspring of the individual carrying the mutation could also have this alteration?
Correct Answer
D. Reproductive.
Explanation
If a person's reproductive cells (eggs or sperm) are genetically altered by ionizing radiation, the mutation can be passed on to their offspring. This is because reproductive cells carry the genetic information that is passed on to the next generation. Stem cells, somatic cells, and lactotrope cells do not contribute to the genetic material of the offspring, so any genetic alteration in these cells would not be inherited by the next generation.
16.
What term is used to classify radiation health effects in which a given condition is not seen until a certain dose is received?
Correct Answer
D. Nonstochastic.
Explanation
Nonstochastic is the correct answer because it refers to radiation health effects that do not have a threshold dose, meaning that even small doses of radiation can cause these effects. In other words, the occurrence of the condition is not dependent on the dose received, and there is no safe level of exposure. This is in contrast to stochastic effects, which have a probability of occurring that increases with higher doses, and may not be seen until a certain threshold is reached. Linear and nonlinear refer to the relationship between dose and effect, but do not specifically address the threshold issue.
17.
What types of cells are most easily damaged by ionizing radiation?
Correct Answer
B. Blood.
Explanation
Ionizing radiation can cause damage to cells by breaking chemical bonds and producing reactive oxygen species. Blood cells, specifically the rapidly dividing cells in the bone marrow, are highly sensitive to radiation because they are constantly dividing and renewing. This makes them more susceptible to DNA damage and cell death caused by ionizing radiation. Additionally, blood cells play a crucial role in the immune system and oxygen transport, making their damage particularly detrimental to overall health.
18.
Acute radiation syndrome typically occurs when the radiation dose exceeds
Correct Answer
C. 1 Gy (100 rad).
Explanation
Acute radiation syndrome is a condition that occurs when a person is exposed to high levels of radiation. The severity of the syndrome depends on the dose of radiation received. In this case, the correct answer is 1 Gy (100 rad), which means that acute radiation syndrome typically occurs when the radiation dose exceeds 1 Gy or 100 rad.
19.
X-ray production that is intentionally accelerated into a material with high atomic number (Z) for the purpose of bremsstrahlung interactions to generate X-ray photons is
Correct Answer
C. Electrons.
Explanation
X-ray production through bremsstrahlung interactions involves the acceleration of charged particles into a material with high atomic number. Electrons, being negatively charged, are accelerated and interact with the atomic nuclei in the material, causing the emission of X-ray photons. Protons, neutrons, and positrons do not possess the necessary charge or behavior to generate X-ray photons through bremsstrahlung interactions.
20.
Which component of an x-ray tube is negatively charged?
Correct Answer
B. Cathode.
Explanation
The cathode of an x-ray tube is negatively charged. In an x-ray tube, the cathode emits a stream of electrons through a process called thermionic emission. These electrons are then accelerated towards the positively charged anode, creating the x-rays that are used for imaging. The cathode is responsible for generating the electron beam, making it the component that carries the negative charge.
21.
What term is used to identify the area of the target bombarded by electrons at any moment in time in an x-ray machine?
Correct Answer
C. Focal spot.
Explanation
The term used to identify the area of the target bombarded by electrons at any moment in time in an x-ray machine is the focal spot. The focal spot refers to the small area on the anode where the electrons from the cathode are focused and strike, producing x-rays. It is an important parameter that determines the resolution and clarity of the resulting x-ray image.
22.
What role does the collimator play in x-ray production?
Correct Answer
A. Reduces scatter radiation.
Explanation
The collimator in x-ray production plays a role in reducing scatter radiation. Scatter radiation occurs when the x-ray beam interacts with the patient's body, causing the photons to change direction. This can lead to a decrease in image quality and an increase in radiation exposure for both the patient and the operator. The collimator helps to limit the spread of the x-ray beam, directing it towards the desired area and reducing scatter radiation.
23.
Within the radioisotope permit program which of the following is not a type of material that the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) regulates?
Correct Answer
C. Radiological.
Explanation
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) regulates various types of materials within the radioisotope permit program, including source materials, byproduct materials, and special nuclear materials. However, radiological materials are not specifically mentioned as a type of material regulated by the NRC. Therefore, radiological is not a type of material that the NRC regulates within the radioisotope permit program.
24.
Which is an example of an item that would be covered by a template permit?
Correct Answer
C. Targeting devices.
Explanation
A template permit is typically used to cover items that are frequently exported or imported and have a standardized use or purpose. Medical and academic items can vary greatly in their nature and purpose, making it less likely for them to be covered by a template permit. Research and development items may also have unique characteristics that require specific permits. However, targeting devices are often standardized and commonly used, making them a suitable example of an item that would be covered by a template permit.
25.
Who has the board responsibility of ensuring the receipt, possession, distribution, use, transfer, and disposal of radioactive materials within the Air Force?
Correct Answer
C. Radioisotope Committee.
Explanation
The Radioisotope Committee is responsible for ensuring the receipt, possession, distribution, use, transfer, and disposal of radioactive materials within the Air Force. This committee is specifically dedicated to handling the management and oversight of radioactive materials, ensuring that they are handled safely and in accordance with regulations. The other options, such as the Master Material License Committee, Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and Radiation Commission, do not have the specific mandate or authority to oversee radioactive materials within the Air Force.
26.
An x-ray fluorescence device would be covered under which radiation permit?
Correct Answer
A. Template.
Explanation
An x-ray fluorescence device would be covered under a radiation permit that falls under the category of "Template." This means that the device follows a standardized format or structure that is recognized and approved by regulatory authorities. The use of a template ensures that the device meets all the necessary requirements and safety standards for radiation emission, making it eligible for a radiation permit.
27.
What type of radiation permit is issued for radioactive material uses which are unique in nature or relative risk?
Correct Answer
B. Nontemplate.
Explanation
A nontemplate radiation permit is issued for radioactive material uses that are unique in nature or relative risk. This means that these uses do not fit into the traditional or standard templates for radiation permits. Nontemplate permits are specifically designed to address the specific risks and characteristics of these unique uses, ensuring that appropriate safety measures and regulations are in place to protect both workers and the public from potential radiation hazards.
28.
Who is responsible for ensuring the parameters describe within each radiation permit arefollowed?
Correct Answer
C. Radiation safety officer.
Explanation
The radiation safety officer is responsible for ensuring that the parameters described within each radiation permit are followed. They are specifically trained in radiation safety and are responsible for implementing and enforcing safety protocols to protect individuals and the environment from potential radiation hazards. The shop supervisor may have general oversight, but the radiation safety officer is the designated expert in this area. The permit control officer is responsible for managing the issuance and control of permits, but not necessarily ensuring compliance with the parameters. The bioenvironmental engineer may have a role in assessing and mitigating radiation risks, but they are not specifically responsible for ensuring compliance with permit parameters.
29.
Any workers occupationally exposed to ionizing radiation must be enrolled, who are likely to exceed an external dose of 1mSv (100 mrem) or
Correct Answer
B. 2 percent of the annual limits of intake (ALI).
Explanation
Workers occupationally exposed to ionizing radiation must be enrolled if they are likely to exceed 2 percent of the annual limits of intake (ALI). This means that if their exposure is expected to be higher than 2 percent of the maximum allowable intake of radiation for a year, they must be enrolled. This ensures that workers who are at risk of significant radiation exposure are properly monitored and protected.
30.
Who is typically given the responsibility of operating the USAF Personnel Dosimetry Program?
Correct Answer
A. Bioenvironmental Engineering (BE) journeyman.
Explanation
A Bioenvironmental Engineering (BE) journeyman is typically given the responsibility of operating the USAF Personnel Dosimetry Program. This individual is trained in the field of bioenvironmental engineering and has the necessary knowledge and skills to handle the dosimetry program effectively. They are responsible for monitoring and assessing radiation exposure levels for personnel in the United States Air Force.
31.
Who is responsible for enrolling personnel into the dosimetry program and determining the type of external monitoring required?
Correct Answer
D. Bioenvironmental Engineering.
Explanation
Bioenvironmental Engineering is responsible for enrolling personnel into the dosimetry program and determining the type of external monitoring required. They are experts in assessing and managing environmental factors that may affect human health. In the context of dosimetry, they have the knowledge and expertise to determine the appropriate monitoring methods and equipment needed to measure and assess radiation exposure. This responsibility falls under their domain as they are trained to ensure the safety and well-being of personnel in relation to environmental hazards.
32.
Who interviews the workplace supervisor and enrolled individual when investigating an abnormal exposure to determine its cause?
Correct Answer
D. Installation Radiation Safety Officer.
Explanation
The Installation Radiation Safety Officer is responsible for conducting investigations into abnormal exposures to determine their cause. This includes interviewing both the workplace supervisor and the enrolled individual involved in the incident. They have the expertise and knowledge to assess radiation safety protocols and identify any potential breaches or errors that may have led to the exposure. This role is crucial in ensuring the safety of personnel and preventing future incidents.
33.
Which type of dosimeter must be worn by all personnel enrolled in the Dosimetry program regardless of other types of dosimeters worn?
Correct Answer
D. Whole body.
Explanation
All personnel enrolled in the Dosimetry program must wear a whole body dosimeter regardless of any other dosimeters they may be wearing. This is because a whole body dosimeter measures the radiation dose received by the entire body, providing an overall assessment of radiation exposure. Other types of dosimeters, such as collar, neutron, or extremity dosimeters, may be worn to measure specific areas or types of radiation, but a whole body dosimeter is necessary to ensure comprehensive monitoring of radiation exposure.
34.
Which type of dosimeter should be issued to individuals who perform fluoroscopic examinations or operate portable medical x-ray equipment?
Correct Answer
A. Collar.
Explanation
Individuals who perform fluoroscopic examinations or operate portable medical x-ray equipment are at risk of exposure to radiation. A collar dosimeter is specifically designed to be worn around the neck and measures the radiation dose received in the head and neck region, which is the most vulnerable area to radiation exposure in these situations. Therefore, issuing a collar dosimeter to these individuals ensures accurate monitoring of their radiation exposure levels.
35.
How often do electronic personal dosimeters used for first responder or readiness purposes require calibration?
Correct Answer
C. Every twelve months.
Explanation
Electronic personal dosimeters are devices used by first responders or individuals in readiness situations to measure and monitor their exposure to radiation. Calibration is necessary to ensure the accuracy and reliability of these devices. The correct answer states that electronic personal dosimeters used for these purposes require calibration every twelve months. This means that the dosimeters should be checked and adjusted, if necessary, on an annual basis to maintain their accuracy in measuring radiation levels.
36.
Which dosimeter should be used to evaluate exposures to the head and lens of the eye?
Correct Answer
A. Collar.
Explanation
The collar dosimeter should be used to evaluate exposures to the head and lens of the eye because it is specifically designed to measure radiation doses in these areas. The collar dosimeter is worn around the neck, close to the head, and provides accurate readings of radiation exposure to the head and lens of the eye. This dosimeter is particularly important in situations where there is a higher risk of radiation exposure to these sensitive areas, such as in medical imaging procedures or certain occupational settings.
37.
Each work area being monitored is required to have how many control dosimeters?
Correct Answer
C. One for each dosimeter type used within the area.
Explanation
The correct answer is "One for each dosimeter type used within the area." This means that each work area being monitored should have a control dosimeter for each type of dosimeter that is being used within that area. This ensures that accurate measurements can be taken for each type of radiation being monitored in the area.
38.
Where on their body should you instruct emergency response personnel to place the EPDMk2?
Correct Answer
D. On their front torso area, outside of any personal protective equipment (PPE).
Explanation
The EPDMk2 should be placed on the front torso area, outside of any personal protective equipment (PPE). Placing it on the collar, inside or outside of PPE, may not be visible or easily accessible in emergency situations. By placing it on the front torso area, outside of PPE, it ensures that the emergency response personnel can quickly and easily locate and access the EPDMk2 for immediate assistance.
39.
What is the first step you must do to disenroll an individual from the dosimetry program?
Correct Answer
D. Determine if the individual wore their dosimeter during the monitoring period.
Explanation
To disenroll an individual from the dosimetry program, the first step is to determine if the individual wore their dosimeter during the monitoring period. This step is crucial because it helps to ensure accurate monitoring of radiation exposure. If the individual did not wear their dosimeter, it may affect the overall monitoring results and could lead to incorrect assessment of radiation exposure. Therefore, determining if the individual wore their dosimeter is necessary before proceeding with the disenrollment process.
40.
Dosimeters must be exchanged
Correct Answer
C. Within two workdays of the end of the monitoring period.
Explanation
Dosimeters must be exchanged within two workdays of the end of the monitoring period. This means that the dosimeters, which are used to measure radiation exposure, must be replaced with new ones within two workdays after the monitoring period ends. This ensures that accurate and up-to-date measurements are taken and that workers are protected from excessive radiation exposure.
41.
What factor necessitates a more frequent dosimeter exchange?
Correct Answer
D. Prior exposure history of individual beginning work as an occupational radiation worker.
Explanation
Workers who have had prior exposure to radiation and are beginning work as an occupational radiation worker may require a more frequent dosimeter exchange. This is because their prior exposure history indicates that they may have a higher risk of radiation exposure and therefore need more frequent monitoring to ensure their safety.
42.
Once dosimeters are collected after the monitoring period and disassembled, what two things must be compared to account for all issued dosimeters?
Correct Answer
A. Thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD) number and the Listing 1523.
Explanation
After the monitoring period, the dosimeters are collected and disassembled. To ensure that all issued dosimeters are accounted for, two things need to be compared: the TLD number (which is a unique identifier for each dosimeter) and the Listing 1523 (which likely contains a record of all the dosimeters that were issued). By comparing these two, it can be determined if any dosimeters are missing or if there are any discrepancies in the records.
43.
On which of the following forms/listings is the Annual Report of Individual Occupational Exposure to Ionizing Radiation listed?
Correct Answer
B. AF Form 1527–1.
Explanation
The Annual Report of Individual Occupational Exposure to Ionizing Radiation is listed on AF Form 1527–1.
44.
Who sets the value for the investigation action level as part of the as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA) program?
Correct Answer
A. Installation radiation safety officer (IRSO).
Explanation
The installation radiation safety officer (IRSO) is responsible for setting the value for the investigation action level as part of the as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA) program. This officer is in charge of ensuring radiation safety within the installation and has the knowledge and expertise to determine the appropriate level at which investigations should be conducted to minimize radiation exposure. The IRSO plays a crucial role in maintaining a safe working environment and implementing ALARA principles to protect individuals from unnecessary radiation exposure.
45.
After reviewing the Listing 1499–1, Occupational Radiation Exposure Report, it is signed by the Installation Radiations Safety Officer and a copy is sent to the
Correct Answer
B. Workplace supervisor.
Explanation
The correct answer is the workplace supervisor. This can be inferred from the information provided in the question, which states that the report is reviewed by the Installation Radiation Safety Officer and a copy is sent to the workplace supervisor. This suggests that the workplace supervisor is responsible for receiving and reviewing the report.
46.
What should the installation radiation safety officer (IRSO) develop for each dose equivalent category of the Listing 1499?
Correct Answer
C. Investigation actions levels.
Explanation
The installation radiation safety officer (IRSO) should develop investigation action levels for each dose equivalent category of the Listing 1499. Investigation action levels help determine the appropriate actions to be taken in the event of radiation exposure exceeding certain thresholds. These levels provide guidelines for investigating and managing potential radiation incidents, ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals and the environment.
47.
Which radiation measuring device can operate in freeze mode and integrate mode?
Correct Answer
D. Victoreen 451P.
Explanation
The Victoreen 451P is the correct answer because it is a radiation measuring device that can operate in both freeze mode and integrate mode. Freeze mode allows the device to capture and hold a reading, while integrate mode allows for the accumulation of radiation dose over a period of time. This makes the Victoreen 451P versatile and suitable for various radiation measurement applications.
48.
Which gas ionization instrument would you use if you were interested in measuring relatively high exposure rates of gamma or x-rays?
Correct Answer
A. Victoreen 451P.
Explanation
The Victoreen 451P is the correct answer because it is a gas ionization instrument specifically designed for measuring relatively high exposure rates of gamma or x-rays. This instrument is known for its accuracy and reliability in detecting and measuring ionizing radiation. It is commonly used in fields such as nuclear power plants, medical facilities, and industrial settings where there is a need to monitor and measure high levels of radiation exposure.
49.
When using the ADM–300 x-ray probe, how do you position and use the probe?
Correct Answer
D. Hold the probe vertically and use a slow and steady sweeping motion.
Explanation
Hold the probe vertically and use a slow and steady sweeping motion. This is the correct answer because when using the ADM-300 x-ray probe, it is important to hold the probe vertically in order to get accurate readings. Holding the probe parallel would not provide accurate results. Additionally, using a slow and steady sweeping motion allows for thorough scanning and ensures that all areas are properly examined. A fast sweeping motion may lead to missed areas or inaccurate readings.
50.
You’ve been called by the base fire chief to conduct air sampling for suspected radiological particles in the air. What piece of sampling equipment should you get ready?
Correct Answer
C. RADeCO.
Explanation
The correct answer is RADeCO. RADeCO is a company that specializes in providing equipment for radiological monitoring and detection. In this scenario, the base fire chief suspects the presence of radiological particles in the air, so it is appropriate to use sampling equipment specifically designed for this purpose. RADeCO is a reliable choice for conducting air sampling in such situations.