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Answer to Question #930 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"Category: Radiation Basics — Radiation Quantities and Units The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field: Q
In terms of absorbed radiation dose what does the "E" stand for in 5.8E-03?
A
I assume the number, 5.8E-03, is given along with a unit such as a gray or a rad. The E is shorthand notation which stands for a power of ten (e.g., -03 is an exponent of 10). Therefore, 5.8E-03 stands for 5.8 X 10-3 or 0.0058. The 0.0058 could then be a multiplier of the dose unit, gray or rad, depending on the table you are looking at. This notation was convenient to use back before computers/printers were able to use superscripts. Now most publications discourage its use.
Gen Roessler, PhD Health Physics Society website
Answer posted on 21 May 2001. The information and material posted on this website is intended as general reference information only. Specific facts and circumstances may alter the concepts and applications of materials and information described herein. The information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon in the absence of such professional advice specific to whatever facts and circumstances are presented in any given situation. Answers are correct at the time they are posted on the Website. Be advised that over time, some requirements could change, new data could be made available, or Internet links could change. For answers that have been posted for several months or longer, please check the current status of the posted information prior to using the responses for specific applications.
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