Which statement is true regarding a dirty bomb?

Which statement is true regarding a dirty bomb?

• A. The radioactive material is the main destructive component
• B. The destructive capability is limited to the explosives that are attached to it
• C. It creates immediate mass casualties
• D. It is safe to handle in the field

Answer: (B)

A dirty bomb relies on a conventional explosive to spread radioactive material. The immediate destructive power comes from the blast and fragmentation of the explosive itself, while the radiological component mainly creates contamination and longer-term public health concerns. So the statement that the device’s destructive capability is limited to the explosives attached is the best because the radiation isn’t the primary source of immediate destruction. The radioactive material certainly poses contamination and exposure risks, but those are typically longer-term and spread over a area rather than delivering instant mass casualties. It’s not safe to handle in the field because contamination and decontamination needs are real, even if the radiological hazard isn’t the main driver of damage.

A dirty bomb relies on a conventional explosive to spread radioactive material. The immediate destructive power comes from the blast and fragmentation of the explosive itself, while the radiological component mainly creates contamination and longer-term public health concerns. So the statement that the device’s destructive capability is limited to the explosives attached is the best because the radiation isn’t the primary source of immediate destruction. The radioactive material certainly poses contamination and exposure risks, but those are typically longer-term and spread over a area rather than delivering instant mass casualties. It’s not safe to handle in the field because contamination and decontamination needs are real, even if the radiological hazard isn’t the main driver of damage.