What is the relation between pCi/L and Bq/m^3?

The correct relationship between pCi/L and Bq/m³ is that 1 pCi/L is equivalent to 37 Bq/m³. This conversion is based on the definitions of the units:

• pCi/L (picocuries per liter) measures radioactivity in terms of the number of disintegrations per minute (dpm) in a sample.

• Bq/m³ (Becquerels per cubic meter) measures the activity in terms of disintegrations per second.

To convert:

1 picocurie (pCi) represents 37 disintegrations per second (dps), and therefore, when measuring a volume of 1 liter, this corresponds to 37 Bq in that volume. Thus, when converting pCi/L to Bq/m³, you multiply by 37.

Understanding this relationship is critical for those in the field of radiation protection and mitigation, as it allows professionals to accurately assess and communicate levels of radioactivity in different units required for regulatory compliance and public safety.