What can occur as a side effect of exposure to 200 rad?

Exposure to 200 rad can indeed lead to temporary sterility, particularly in individuals who are exposed to high doses of radiation. This is due to the impact of ionizing radiation on the reproductive organs, specifically the ovaries in females and the testes in males. When exposed to this level of radiation, the germ cells that are responsible for reproduction are affected, which can lead to temporary loss of reproductive function.

The effects of radiation on the reproductive system are dose-dependent, and while 200 rad is significant enough to cause temporary changes, it is important to understand that higher doses could result in more lasting effects, such as permanent sterility. Additionally, chronic skin damage is generally associated with prolonged or repeated exposure to radiation rather than a single dose like 200 rad. Therefore, among the options provided, temporary sterility is the most appropriate outcome associated with this level of radiation exposure.