Which type of radiation exposure can lead to both immediate and long-term health effects?

The choice indicating both acute and chronic exposure as necessary for leading to immediate and long-term health effects is accurate because both types of exposure can significantly impact health in different yet overlapping ways.

Acute exposure generally refers to receiving a large dose of radiation in a short time frame. This can lead to immediate health effects, such as radiation sickness, which presents symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and fatigue shortly after exposure. In severe cases, acute exposure can result in death due to the direct damage to vital organs and tissues.

Chronic exposure, on the other hand, involves a lower dose of radiation received over an extended period. This can lead to long-term health effects, including an increased risk of developing cancer and other chronic diseases. Chronic exposure may not cause immediate symptoms, but the cumulative effects over time can significantly impact health outcomes.

By recognizing that both forms of exposure can contribute to immediate and long-term health concerns, it's evident that the interplay between acute and chronic radiation exposure can manifest various health issues, confirming the selection of this option as the correct answer. Other choices may not fully encompass the breadth of health effects associated with both exposure types.