SI unit of radiation absorbed dose is
The absorbed dose measures the energy deposited by ionizing radiation in a mass. I remember that the SI unit for absorbed dose is the gray (Gy). One gray is equal to one joule per kilogram. Before SI units, the unit used to be the rad, where 1 Gy equals 100 rad.
Now, the other options might be other units related to radiation but not the absorbed dose. For example, the sievert (Sv) is used for equivalent dose, which accounts for the biological effect of different types of radiation. The becquerel (Bq) is the SI unit for activity, measuring the number of decays per second. The coulomb per kilogram (C/kg) is the SI unit for exposure, which relates to the ionization produced in air.
Wait, the question is specifically about absorbed dose. So the correct answer should be gray. Let me double-check. Yes, gray is definitely the SI unit here. The other options are for different quantities. So the answer is gray. The options might have been gray, sievert, becquerel, and coulomb per kilogram. Therefore, the correct answer is gray.
**Core Concept**
The SI unit for radiation absorbed dose measures energy deposition in tissue. It is distinct from units for radiation exposure, activity, or equivalent dose. The gray (Gy) quantifies 1 joule of energy absorbed per kilogram of mass.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The gray (Gy) is the SI unit for absorbed dose, defined as energy (in joules) absorbed per kilogram of matter (1 Gy = 1 J/kg). It directly reflects the physical energy imparted to a medium by ionizing radiation. This differs from the sievert (Sv), which incorporates radiation type and biological impact for equivalent dose.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Sievert (Sv) measures equivalent/effective dose, not absorbed dose.
**Option B:** Becquerel (Bq) quantifies radioactivity (decays per second), unrelated to energy absorption.
**Option C:** Coulomb per kilogram (C/kg) measures exposure (ionization in air), not tissue energy deposition.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Absorbed dose (Gy) is critical in radiation therapy and safety. Remember: **Gy = J/kg**, while **Sv = Gy Γ Quality Factor** (for biological effect). Confusing these units is a common exam pitfall.
**Correct Answer: D. Gray**