What is the relationship between dose equivalent in Sieverts and the associated biological risk?

The concept of dose equivalent in Sieverts is designed to account for the different biological effects of various types of radiation. This measure integrates the absorbed dose with a quality factor that reflects the potential for biological harm caused by the type of radiation experienced (such as alpha particles, beta particles, gamma rays, etc.).

As the dose equivalent increases, it indicates that a greater amount of radiation, which has been adjusted for its biological effect, is being absorbed by the body. This directly correlates with an increased biological risk. The higher the dose equivalent, the greater the likelihood of damaging effects such as cancer or other radiation-induced health issues because there is more energy absorbed and potentially more cells are affected.

Thus, the relationship clearly establishes that as dose equivalent in Sieverts increases, so does the associated biological risk, making the correct understanding of this relationship critical in radiological protection and safety protocols in medical settings and beyond.