Several factors influence the extent of radiation-induced damage:
1. Dose: The amount of radiation exposure, measured in units such as Grays (Gy) or Sieverts (Sv), is directly proportional to the severity of damage. Higher doses cause more significant damage.
2. Rate of Exposure: Acute exposure to a high dose of radiation is generally more damaging than chronic exposure to a low dose over a prolonged period.
3. Type of Radiation: Different types of radiation have varying levels of biological effectiveness. For instance, alpha particles, despite having low penetration power, cause more severe localized damage than beta particles or gamma rays.
4. Biological Factors: Age, sex, genetic predisposition, and overall health can influence an individual's susceptibility to radiation-induced damage.
