Chapter 21, Problem 21.51QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The dangerous health effects of ${}^{\text{137}}\text{Cs}$ are to be stated.

Concept introduction: Significant quantities of radioactive ${}^{\text{137}}\text{Cs}$ were released into the environment during the nuclear accident at Chernobyl in $1986$. It is dangerous for health because it can substitute for potassium ion.

To determine: The danger to human health posed by is hazardous due to its long half-life ( $\text{30}\text{years}$). It deposits in the body and cause leukemia as it disintegrates by emitting a $\text{β}$ particle.