Glossary cont'd - doe-hdbk-1106-97

DOE-HDBK-1106-97

GLOSSARY (continued)

Internal Emitter: A term used for a radionuclide deposited in the body.

In-vitro Methods: Detection of radiations emitted by radioactive materials excreted or removed

from the body, using radiochemical and/or radioanalytical techniques.

In-vivo Methods: Detection of radiations emitted by radioactive materials deposited in the body,

usually by whole body (or critical organ) counting techniques.

Ionization (Ion) Chamber: An instrument that detects and measures ionizing radiation by

measuring the electrical current that flows when radiation ionizes gas in a chamber, making the

gas a conductor of the electricity.

Ionizing Radiation: Any electromagnetic or particulate radiation capable of producing ions (either

directly or indirectly) in its passage through matter.

Irradiation: Exposure to radiation.

Isotope: One of two or more atoms with the same number of protons, but different numbers of

neutrons in their nuclei. Isotopes have very nearly the same chemical properties.

keV: The symbol for one thousand-electron-volts (1,000 eV).

Kilo: Symbol k. A prefix indication base unit is to be multiplied by 1,000.

Kilovolt (kV): A unit of electrical potential equal to 1,000 volts.

Lead Equivalent: The thickness of lead affording the same attenuation, under specified

conditions, as the material in question.

License: Written authorization issued to the licensee by the NRC or agreement State to perform

specific activities related to the possession and use of byproduct, source, or special nuclear

material.