Table of Contents
Introduction to Radioactive Isotopes ;
Radioactive isotopes are atoms of the same element that have different atomic masses. For example, uranium has three naturally occurring radioactive isotopes: uranium-234, uranium-235, and uranium-238. Radioactive isotopes are unstable and decay over time, emitting radiation in the process. The radiation can be used to diagnose and treat medical conditions, study the environment, and power nuclear reactors.
Laws of Radioactivity
Radioactivity is the process in which unstable atoms break down and release radiation. There are three types of radiation that can be released: alpha radiation, beta radiation, and gamma radiation.
Each type of radiation has its own properties. Alpha radiation is the most dangerous, because it can cause serious damage to the body if it is ingested or inhaled. Beta radiation is less dangerous, but can still cause damage if it is absorbed by the body. Gamma radiation is the least dangerous, but it can still cause cancer if it is absorbed by the body.
Radioactivity can be used to diagnose and treat cancer. It can also be used to create energy.
Uses of Radioactive Isotopes
Radioactive isotopes are used in a variety of ways in both industry and medicine. In industry, radioactive isotopes are used to create radiation that can be used to sterilize medical equipment and food. They are also used to create radiation to treat cancer. In medicine, radioactive isotopes are used to diagnose and treat medical conditions. They are also used to study the body and how it works.
Application of Isotopes
Isotopes are atoms of the same element that have different numbers of neutrons. The most common isotope of carbon is carbon-12, which has six protons and six neutrons. Another common isotope of carbon is carbon-14, which has six protons and eight neutrons.
Carbon-14 is unstable and decays over time. The rate of decay is known, so scientists can use it to calculate the age of something that contains carbon-14. For example, if a scientist found a sample of wood that contained carbon-14, they could use the rate of decay to calculate how long ago the tree died.
Types of Radioactivity: Alpha, Beta, and Gamma Decay
Radioactivity is a type of nuclear decay that emits radiation in the form of alpha particles, beta particles, or gamma rays.
Alpha decay is the emission of an alpha particle, which is a helium nucleus.
Beta decay is the emission of a beta particle, which is an electron.
Gamma decay is the emission of a gamma ray, which is high-energy light.
