Final answer:
The primary dose limit for members of the general public regarding radiation exposure is 100 mrem/year. This limit helps protect from long-term adverse health effects while considering the possible risks from lower levels of radiation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary dose limit for members of the general public is 100 mrem/year. Radiation doses above this level can lead to adverse health effects, even though they may not be immediately visible. For example, high radiation doses can be fatal, with a dose of 500 rem being lethal for half the exposed subjects within 30 days. Doses around 100 mrem/year are more difficult to assess in terms of long-term health effects such as cancer or genetic changes, but regulations aim to err on the side of caution to protect public health.
Understanding the radiation dose limits is a critical part of radiation protection, which involves measures to limit exposure to ionizing radiation to prevent radiation sickness and stochastic health effects such as cancer. This is particularly important for general public protection, as well as occupational exposure where separate, higher limits apply. The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission monitors and ensures compliance with these limits.