What can reduce the severity of radiation exposure?

The correct answer is based on the principles of radiation protection, which emphasize three key factors: time, distance, and shielding.

Time refers to the duration of exposure to radiation; minimizing the time spent near a radiation source reduces the total dose received. This is because radiation dose is directly proportional to the time of exposure; less time means less radiation absorbed by the body.

Distance is crucial as well. The intensity of radiation decreases significantly with increased distance from the source due to the inverse square law, which states that even a small increase in distance can greatly reduce exposure. Therefore, maximizing the distance between oneself and the radiation source effectively lowers the dose received.

Shielding involves placing a barrier between the person and the radiation source. Different materials can absorb or deflect radiation, reducing exposure. For example, lead is commonly used for gamma radiation, while concrete may be used for neutron radiation.

Together, these three strategies form the foundation of effective radiation safety practices, illustrating that a comprehensive approach is necessary to mitigate radiation exposure effectively. Each factor plays a critical role, and utilizing them in combination provides the best protection against the harmful effects of radiation.