What is the Difference Between Roentgen and Sievert?

The main difference between Roentgen and Sievert lies in the properties of ionizing radiation they measure. Roentgen is the unit of measurement for exposure to ionizing radiation, while Sievert is the unit for measuring the health effect of ionizing radiation.

• Roentgen (R): This unit measures the exposure to ionizing radiation, primarily referring to X-rays and gamma rays. It is defined as the electric charge freed by such radiation in a specified volume of air divided by coulomb per kilogram. Roentgen belongs to the Legacy unit system.
• Sievert (Sv): This unit measures the biological effect on human tissue of exposure to ionizing radiation. The Sievert unit belongs to the SI derived unit system. To put it into perspective, 1 Roentgen (exposure) is equivalent to 1 rad (absorbed dose) and 1 rem or 1000 mrem (dose equivalent).

In summary, Roentgen and Sievert are both units of measurement for properties regarding ionizing radiation, but they measure different aspects: exposure and health effects, respectively.

Comparative Table: Roentgen vs Sievert

The main difference between Roentgen and Sievert lies in the properties they measure regarding ionizing radiation. Here is a table comparing the two units:

Roentgen is the unit of measurement for the exposure to ionizing radiation, specifically X-rays and gamma rays. On the other hand, Sievert is the unit for measuring the biological effect of ionizing radiation on living organisms.