What is the purpose of the REM measurement?

The purpose of the REM (Roentgen Equivalent Man) measurement is to assess the biological effects of different types of ionizing radiation on human tissue. This unit is crucial in the field of radiation protection and health physics, as it takes into account not only the amount of radiation exposure but also its potential impact on human health. The REM measurement allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the risks associated with various radiation types, such as alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays, which can have different biological effects even at equivalent levels of exposure.

In contrast, other choices do not align with the core concept of REM measurements. Measuring room temperature relates to environmental control and comfort, not biological effects. Determining a person's age generally involves biological or physiological assessments rather than radiation measurement. Estimating financial costs of radiation does not directly connect to the biological risk assessment that REM embodies. Thus, the significance of REM lies in its role in comparing the potential health impacts of exposure to different kinds of radiation.