The quotient of [math]dE[/math] by [math]dl[/math], where [math]dE[/math] is the mean energy lost by the charged particle due to electronic interactions in traversing a distance [math]dl[/math], thus:
[math] L = \frac{dE}{dl} [/math]
The unit of linear energy transfer is joule per metre J m-1, often given in keV μm-1.
See High linear transfer radiation and Low linear energy transfer radiation.
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