How does distance affect radiation exposure?

Increasing distance decreases exposure to radiation due to the inverse square law, which states that the intensity of radiation from a point source is inversely proportional to the square of the distance from that source. As you move further away from the radiation source, the amount of radiation you encounter decreases significantly. For example, if you double the distance from a radioactive source, the exposure level is reduced to a quarter of what it was at the original distance. This principle is critical in radiation protection practices, as increasing the distance is one of the most effective ways to minimize exposure to harmful radiation. Consequently, maintaining or increasing distance during situations involving potential radiation exposure is a fundamental strategy in enhancing safety and reducing health risks.