Which theory of radiation interaction is illustrated by the operating principles of an ionization chamber?

The Bragg-Gray cavity theory is fundamental to understanding how an ionization chamber operates, as it describes the relationship between the ionization produced in a gas-filled cavity and the energy deposited by radiation in the surrounding medium. This theory posits that radiation interacts with the medium, leading to ionization, which can be measured to assess the radiation dose.

Ionization chambers work on the principle that when radiation passes through a gas, it can ionize the gas molecules, creating ion pairs. The detection and measurement of these ions enable practitioners to determine the amount of radiation energy deposited in a specific volume. The Bragg-Gray theory facilitates this by providing a framework for calculating the dose in tissue based on the ionization measured in the cavity gas, taking into account the density and atomic number differences between the gas and the surrounding medium.

This theory is significant as it allows for the accurate calibration and use of ionization chambers in clinical settings, as such devices are typically employed to monitor radiation dose in various applications, including therapy and radiation protection. The other theories mentioned, while they have relevance to radiation interactions, do not align as closely with the principles governing the operation of an ionization chamber. For instance, while the Spencer-Attix theory also addresses ion