What is the function of a dosimeter?

A dosimeter serves the specific function of measuring an individual's exposure to ionizing radiation, making it critical for ensuring the safety of personnel working in environments where radiation is present. This measurement is vital for monitoring radiation exposure to avoid harmful health effects, as excessive exposure to ionizing radiation can lead to serious health issues, including cancer.

Dosimeters typically provide a quantitative assessment of radiation dose over time, thus helping both individuals and regulatory agencies ensure that exposure remains within safe limits. The use of dosimeters is common in medical, nuclear, and research fields, where there is a potential risk of radiation exposure.

In contrast, measuring air quality would involve different instruments that assess pollutants in the air, while monitoring patient health metrics focuses on physiological parameters, such as heart rate and blood pressure. Similarly, detecting environmental pollutants also requires different types of sensors and equipment not related to radiation exposure, further distinguishing the dosimeter's purpose from those other functions.