What is an example of a deterministic effect of radiation exposure?

A deterministic effect of radiation exposure refers to biological changes that can be directly correlated with the dose of radiation received, where the severity of the effect increases with higher doses. Skin burns, resulting from high levels of ionizing radiation, exemplify a deterministic effect. These burns appear after a certain threshold of radiation exposure and are a direct physiological response to the damage inflicted on the skin cells.

This type of effect is characterized by certain thresholds; once the radiation dose exceeds this threshold, the injury manifests, typically leading to immediate effects such as redness, blistering, or deeper tissue damage. The consequences worsen with increased exposure, aligning with the definition of deterministic effects.

In contrast, increased risk of cancer, genetic mutations, and delayed effects on fertility are considered stochastic effects. These effects do not have a clear threshold and are probabilistic in nature, meaning that they may occur after any amount of exposure, and their occurrence increases with higher doses, but without a guaranteed onset or direct correlation to the extent of exposure experienced. Thus, the correct answer clearly highlights the nature of deterministic effects associated with specific, predictable injuries from radiation.