What is the primary function of a dosimeter?

The primary function of a dosimeter is to detect and measure ionizing radiation exposure. Dosimeters are essential tools in radiation protection because they provide a method for quantifying the amount of radiation a person has been exposed to over a specific period. They are typically worn on a person's body, often at the collar or wrist, to monitor exposure in a real-time or cumulative manner.

The importance of dosimeters cannot be overstated, particularly in workplaces where radiation is present, such as in healthcare facilities, nuclear power plants, and research laboratories. By measuring exposure levels, dosimeters help ensure that individuals are not exceeding established safety limits and can help guide interventions if exposure levels are too high.

Other options such as measuring sound levels, assessing chemical exposure, or indicating humidity levels relate to different types of monitoring equipment and are outside the scope of what a dosimeter is designed to do. These functions involve distinct methodologies and sensors specifically tailored to their respective fields and do not overlap with the role of a dosimeter in radiation exposure monitoring.