What is a key difference between active and passive dosimeters?

The key difference between active and passive dosimeters lies in how they measure and report radiation exposure. Active dosimeters are designed to analyze exposure in real-time or shortly after the exposure event, often providing immediate feedback to the user. This capability allows for continuous monitoring of radiation levels, enabling the wearer to take immediate action if necessary.

In contrast, passive dosimeters do not offer real-time readings. Instead, they collect exposure data over a period and require a subsequent analysis to determine the total radiation dose the wearer was exposed to. This analysis typically happens after the dosimeter is removed from the radiation field and processed in a laboratory.

Therefore, the ability of active dosimeters to analyze exposure right after an event is what sets them apart and makes option C the correct choice. This distinction is crucial for understanding the practical applications of different types of dosimeters in the field of radiation safety and monitoring.