What is the combined average dose of radiation received by the general public in millirem?

The combined average dose of radiation received by the general public is approximately 620 millirem. This figure represents the total exposure from various sources, including natural background radiation (such as cosmic rays, radon, and terrestrial radiation) as well as artificial sources (like medical procedures and occupational exposure from industries such as nuclear power).

Understanding this number is important for recognizing the typical levels of radiation exposure individuals experience in their daily lives. This figure provides a baseline for assessing potential risks associated with additional exposure, such as that which might occur in certain occupations or during specific medical treatments. The average dose is crucial for public awareness and regulatory standards aimed at minimizing unnecessary radiation exposure while ensuring safety in environments where radiation is present.

The other choices, while they represent different millirem values, do not align with the widely accepted estimate for the average dose to the general public.