title: Elements of microdosimetry.
abstract: This is an introductory tutorial to the field of microdosimetry. Following a brief historical outline, we review the physics of experimental and theoretical microdosimetry and the application of microdosimetry to radiation biology within the so-called "site" approximation. Modern interpretations of microdosimetry that make use of methods developed in integral geometry are described under the heading "structural microdosimetry;" this also illustrates the conceptual basis of dual radiation action. A discussion concerning some future prospects of this field concludes the review.
authors.affiliation: College of Physicians Surgeons of Columbia University, Radiological Research Laboratories, New York, New York 10032.
authors.forename: H H
authors.initials: HH
authors.lastname: Rossi
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Zaider
mesh_terms: D009502:Neutrons; D011853:Radiobiology; D011874:Radiometry / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods* / Q000639:trends; D012062:Relative Biological Effectiveness