Final answer:
Stochastic effects of radiation, like cancer and genetic defects, relate to the chance of their occurrence from any radiation dose, supported by the linear hypothesis, though low-dose risks remain controversial with some evidence for hormesis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Stochastic effects in radiation exposure relate to the probability of the occurrence of an effect, such as cancer or genetic defects, rather than its severity. Radiation can interfere with cell reproduction, leading to somatic damage and carcinogenesis, or genetic damage to eggs and sperm. The risk of these effects is not determined by the severity of exposure but by the chance occurrence after any dose of radiation, a concept supported by the linear hypothesis. High doses of radiation have a well-known association with increased cancer risk, and even low to moderate doses are considered to carry a risk under the linear hypothesis. However, the exact risk for such low doses is controversial, and some suggest a phenomenon called hormesis, where low levels may invoke positive biological responses and aid repair mechanisms.