What type of radiation effects are referred to as stochastic effects?

Stochastic effects are characterized by their reliance on probability rather than a specific dose threshold, which means that these effects can occur at any level of exposure, even at very low doses. As the radiation dose increases, the likelihood of these effects occurring also increases, but there is no fixed dose level that guarantees their manifestation. This makes them distinct from deterministic effects, which do have a threshold and are more severe with higher doses.

Examples of stochastic effects include cancer and genetic mutations. These effects are of significant concern in radiation safety because even minimal exposure can contribute to the risk of these outcomes over time. Since they depend on the probability of occurrence rather than a defined threshold, understanding stochastic effects is essential for assessing long-term risks associated with radiation exposure.

The other options do not accurately define stochastic effects: some describe deterministic effects or imply thresholds, while others refer to limits related to individual exposure or implications on future generations, which are not the primary focus of the definition of stochastic effects.