What does total effective dose equivalent (TEDE) encompass?

The total effective dose equivalent (TEDE) is a key concept in radiation protection, reflecting the overall risk of harm from both external and internal radiation exposure. The correct answer highlights that TEDE is comprised of the sum of deep dose equivalent for external exposures and the committed dose equivalent (CDE) for internal exposures.

This comprehensive approach is crucial because it accounts for the different ways that radiation can impact the body. Deep dose equivalent measures the dose absorbed by the body due to external sources of radiation, while the committed dose equivalent quantifies the longer-term effects of radioactive materials that have been ingested or inhaled, calculating the radiation dose over a specified period after the intake event.

In contrast, other options do not capture the full scope of what TEDE represents. The total dose from all radiation exposure fails to distinguish between external and internal sources, thus missing the nuanced risk assessments required in radiation safety. The cumulative dose divided by lifespan does not directly relate to acute or chronic exposure risks as assessed by TEDE. Lastly, the maximum dose received in a single event provides an incomplete picture of exposure over time, which is critical for understanding long-term health risks associated with radiation.