Radioisotopes are useful because of their three unique characteristics: (1) radiation emission; (2) predictable radioactive lives; and (3) the same chemical properties as the nonradioactive atoms of that element. Researchers are able to "order" a radioisotope with the right radiation, half-life, and chemical property to perform a given task with the knowledge of these three characteristics. This publication includes information on the uses of radioisotopes in medicine for providing doctors with diagnostic and therapeutic techniques for scanning organs and contributing to the healing process in the treatment of cancer. Radioisotopes can help to authenticate works of art and solve crimes. In industry radioisotopes are used to detect hidden flaws in hardware and improve product quality. Uses in agriculture include insect control and the preservation of foods. (RT)
- Authorizing Institution
- Department of Energy, Washington, DC. Nuclear Energy Office.
- Peer Reviewed
- F
- Publication Type
- Reports - Descriptive
- Published in
- United States of America
Table of Contents
- In the century since they were first now rely on to probe and unravel the ancient past precisely dating the era 3
- Exposing food to radiation does not nutritional value is not significantly changed. Irradiating food increases its shelf life kills insects in grains and stored foods inhibits the sprouting of 30
