Which term describes radioactive material deposited on surfaces?

The term that describes radioactive material deposited on surfaces is contamination. Contamination refers to the presence of radioactive substances on surfaces, in the air, or within substances where they should not be. It is a critical concept in radiological safety and emergency response, as contamination can pose health risks and complicate decontamination efforts.

In practical terms, contamination can occur during various processes involving radioactive materials, such as medical procedures, industrial applications, or nuclear power operations. Identifying and controlling contamination is essential to ensure safety in environments where radiation is present, and it often requires specific decontamination methods to remove radioactive particles from affected surfaces.

Understanding contamination is vital for maintaining a safe working environment and is a primary focus in radiation safety protocols. This contrasts with other terms like shielding, which relates to materials used to block radiation, dosimetry, which involves measuring radiation exposure, and radiation safety, a broader concept that encompasses various practices to protect individuals from the harmful effects of radiation.