What term refers to radioactive materials located inside the body?

The term that refers to radioactive materials located inside the body is "internal dose." This concept is crucial in understanding how radiation can affect human health. When radioactive materials enter the body, typically through ingestion, inhalation, or wounds, they can emit radiation, which can lead to various biological effects depending on the type and amount of radiation, as well as the length of time it remains in the body.

An internal dose is quantitatively assessed to evaluate the potential biological damage caused by radionuclides within physiological systems. This dose takes into account factors such as the distribution of the radioactive material within organs, the energy of the emitted radiation, and the duration of exposure.

In contrast, external dose refers to exposure to radiation from sources outside the body, while external contamination describes the presence of radioactive materials on the surface of the skin or clothing. Radiation exposure is a broader term that can include both internal and external sources, but it does not specifically denote the situation where radioactive materials are inside the body. Understanding these distinctions is important for accurately assessing radiation health risks and implementing appropriate protective measures.