How is radioactivity typically measured?

Radioactivity is measured in becquerels (Bq), which quantifies the rate of radioactive decay. Specifically, one becquerel is defined as one disintegration or decay event per second. This unit provides a standard measure for scientists and health professionals to understand how much radioactive material is present and how quickly it is decaying, which is crucial for assessing safety and potential exposure.

Using this metric is essential in fields such as radiation safety, nuclear medicine, and environmental monitoring, where accurate measurements dictate safety protocols and treatment approaches. The use of becquerels allows professionals to establish effective regulatory standards and monitor compliance with safety guidelines in environments where radioactive materials might be present.