Chapter 24.4, Problem 31SSC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Radioisotope is used to diagnose medical problems needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

Radioisotopes are elementary radioactive isotopes. They can also be described as atoms having an unstable neutron and proton mixture, or excess energy in their nucleus. Radioisotopes may also be used through a chemical reaction to track the course of an element. For example, ${\text{CO}}_{\text{2}}$ gas containing isotopes of radioactive carbon-14 was used to study the production of glucose in photosynthesis.

Answer to Problem 31SSC

Radioisotope is used to diagnose medical problems. Iodine-131 is used to identify the disease caused due to thyroid gland. Phosphorus-32 and phosphorus-33 are used in researching biology and genetics. Strontium-85 is used in the study of metabolism and bond formation.

Explanation of Solution

Radiotracers also have important uses in medicine. Iodine-131, for example, is commonly used to detect diseases associated with the thyroid gland. If a problem is suspected, the patient will drink a solution containing a small amount of iodine-131. When iodine is absorbed, the iodine taken up by the thyroid is measured and used in monitoring the function of the thyroid gland.

Conclusion

A radiotracer is a radioisotope which releases non-ionizing radiation and is used to identify the presence of a particular substance or element.