Question
Why is it important that radioisotopes used as diagnostic tools in nuclear medicine produce gamma radiation when they decay? Why are alpha emitters not used as diagnostic tools?
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Gamma radiation is a type of electromagnetic radiation, similar to X-rays, but with higher energy. It is a wave of energy that can penetrate deeply into tissues without causing significant damage. On the other hand, alpha particles are actual particles with mass, Show more…
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Why is it important that radioisotopes used in diagnostic tests have short half-lives? A) These radioisotopes have a greater activity so they are easier to monitor. B) This minimizes the harmful side effects of the radiation. C) This is necessary so the radioisotopes will have high energy. D) These radioisotopes are less expensive.
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If a radioisotope is used for diagnosis (e.g., detecting cancer), it should decay by gamma radiation. However, if its use is therapeutic (e.g., treating cancer), it should decay by alpha or beta radiation. Explain why in terms of ionizing and penetrating power.
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