Which radiation type is detected by a Personal Radiation Device (PRD)?

Which radiation type is detected by a Personal Radiation Device (PRD)?

• A. Gamma only
• B. Alpha and beta
• C. Gamma and neutron
• D. Neutron only

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that a Personal Radiation Device is built to detect gamma radiation. Gamma rays are high-energy photons that can travel through air and clothing, so a compact detector worn on the body can sense their presence from a distance. In contrast, alpha and beta particles have very short ranges in air and are easily stopped by clothing or skin, making them hard to detect with a wearable device. Neutrons require specialized detectors and are not what a typical PRD is designed to monitor. So, gamma radiation is the type detected by a PRD.

The key idea is that a Personal Radiation Device is built to detect gamma radiation. Gamma rays are high-energy photons that can travel through air and clothing, so a compact detector worn on the body can sense their presence from a distance. In contrast, alpha and beta particles have very short ranges in air and are easily stopped by clothing or skin, making them hard to detect with a wearable device. Neutrons require specialized detectors and are not what a typical PRD is designed to monitor. So, gamma radiation is the type detected by a PRD.