What is the range in water for 8 MeV electron beams?

The range of 8 MeV electron beams in water is indeed around 4 cm. This value is significant in the context of radiation therapy, as it determines the depth at which the maximum dose of radiation is delivered to tissue, making it essential for planning treatments for patients.

Electron beams are used specifically for treating superficial tumors due to their limited penetration ability compared to photon beams. The range of electron beams is influenced by their energy; higher energy electrons have greater range in tissue. For 8 MeV electrons, the established tissue maximum value (TMZ) typically falls within the vicinity of 4 cm in water, effectively delivering a therapeutic dose to lesions located at that depth while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.

Understanding the depth of penetration is crucial for medical dosimetrists as it impacts treatment strategies and planning, ensuring that radiation doses are accurately calculated to optimize therapeutic outcomes while protecting normal tissues.