What type of radiation exposure occurs over a long duration?

Chronic exposure refers to radiation exposure that takes place over an extended period of time, often at lower levels compared to acute exposure. This type of exposure may come from consistent, long-term sources of radiation, such as ongoing exposure to radon gas in homes or continuous occupational exposure in certain fields. The effects of chronic exposure can accumulate over time, leading to potential health risks such as cancer or radiation-induced diseases.

Acute exposure, on the other hand, occurs over a short period and typically involves high levels of radiation, resulting in immediate health effects. Instant exposure, which is often not a standardized term used in radiation protection, would imply immediate contact with radiation but does not specify duration or intensity. Stable exposure implies a consistent and non-fluctuating level of radiation, but it lacks clarity on whether this is prolonged or acute.

Understanding the differences between these types of exposure is crucial for both safety protocols and assessing health risks associated with radiation. Chronic exposure is essential to monitor as it can lead to long-term health effects that are not immediately apparent.