What term describes a long-term exposure to low-level radiation?

The term that describes a long-term exposure to low-level radiation is chronic. Chronic exposure refers to a continuous or repeated exposure to a substance, in this case, radiation, over an extended period. This type of exposure can have cumulative effects on health, as the body may not have sufficient time to recover from the radiological effects.

In contrast, acute exposure refers to a short-term exposure to high levels of radiation, which typically results in immediate health effects. The maximum survivable dose is a concept that refers to the highest amount of radiation a person can receive without immediate danger to life; however, this does not apply to long-term exposure scenarios. Immediate exposure generally indicates a situation where one is exposed to radiation suddenly and without warning, again differing from the prolonged nature of chronic exposure. Understanding the nuances between these terms is essential for recognizing how chronic exposure can impact health over time.