Which term is used to compare the biological effects of different types of radiation on body tissues?

The term that is used to compare the biological effects of different types of radiation on body tissues is equivalent dose. This metric accounts for the type of radiation and its respective biological impact on the tissues, allowing for a standardized way to assess risk. Different types of radiation can have varying effects on living tissue, and equivalent dose adjusts for these differences using specific weighting factors.

For instance, alpha particles are much more damaging than beta particles or gamma rays for the same amount of absorbed energy, so the equivalent dose incorporates these factors to better reflect the potential biological damage. This makes it crucial for understanding and managing the risks associated with radiation exposure in various medical and occupational settings.