What is the impact of increasing the distance between the radiation source and the operator?

Increasing the distance between the radiation source and the operator decreases the radiation dose received by the operator. This principle is grounded in the inverse square law of radiation, which states that as the distance from the radiation source increases, the intensity of radiation exposure decreases dramatically. Specifically, doubling the distance from the source reduces the radiation dose to one-quarter of what it would have been at the original distance.

Radiation follows a geometric distribution, meaning the radiation spreads out as it moves away from its source. By increasing the distance, the operator is effectively reducing their exposure to the radiation, making distance one of the key protective measures in radiological practices.

In this context, the other options don't capture the fundamental relationship between distance and radiation exposure. For example, increasing the distance does not lead to an increase in radiation dose or exposure time; instead, it actively works to minimize those factors. Understanding this relationship is crucial for ensuring safety and minimizing radiation risk in environments where fluoroscopy and other radiographic procedures are performed.