The traditional unit of measurement for absorbed dose is?

The traditional unit of measurement for absorbed dose is the rad. The rad quantifies the amount of energy deposited by ionizing radiation in a given mass of material, typically measured in grams. One rad is defined as the deposition of 100 ergs of energy per gram of tissue.

This unit has historical significance in radiology and radiation physics, where it was commonly used before the adoption of the gray as the SI unit of absorbed dose, with one gray equivalent to 100 rads. Although the gray is now more widely used in modern scientific contexts, the rad remains recognizable, especially in older literature and clinical settings. Understanding this unit is essential for professionals in the field of dental radiation safety, as it helps in assessing the risks and dose levels involved in radiographic procedures.