How does distance affect radiation exposure?

Increasing distance reduces exposure to radiation due to the inverse square law, which states that the intensity of radiation from a point source decreases in proportion to the square of the distance from the source. As you move farther away from a radiation source, the amount of radiation that reaches you decreases significantly. This principle is crucial in radiation protection and safety protocols, as maintaining a greater distance from the source of radiation can substantially lower the dose received by individuals.

In practice, this means that by doubling the distance from the radiation source, the exposure is reduced to one-fourth of its original value. This relationship highlights the importance of distance in minimizing radiation exposure, making it a fundamental concept in radiological safety and emergency response situations.