What unit is used to measure radiation intensity in air?

The unit used to measure radiation intensity in air is the Roentgen. This unit specifically quantifies exposure to ionizing radiation in air, primarily in terms of the amount of ionization produced by radiation. The Roentgen is defined as the amount of X or gamma radiation that generates a specific amount of ion pairs in one cubic centimeter of air under standard conditions.

Using the Roentgen allows for a clear understanding of how much radiation is present in the environment, particularly in medical and occupational settings where radiation exposure is a concern. It is crucial for assessing safety levels and understanding potential biological impacts from radiation.

In contrast, the Rad and Gray are units used to measure absorbed dose, which refers to the amount of energy deposited by radiation in a material, typically living tissue. The Curie is a unit of radioactivity, measuring the decay of radioactive atoms rather than providing information about exposure or intensity in air. Therefore, the Roentgen serves a distinct purpose in gauging radiation intensity specifically in the context of air exposure.