What is the purpose of a dirty bomb?

A dirty bomb, also known as a radiological dispersal device (RDD), is designed primarily to disperse radioactive materials using conventional explosives. The primary purpose of such a device is to create panic and fear among the civilian population. By releasing radioactive materials, a dirty bomb can contaminate an area, making it unsafe for habitation and use, thereby disrupting normal life and instilling a sense of vulnerability among people.

As a result, the aim is not to cause high fatalities like a nuclear bomb but to create chaos, fear, and long-lasting consequences in terms of land usability and public safety. This method relies heavily on psychological impact in addition to physical contamination. Other choices, such as creating safe environments, assisting in construction, or generating renewable energy, do not align with the intent or function of a dirty bomb, which is fundamentally centered around instilling fear and creating hazardous conditions.