Uses of Radioactive Isotopes

Definition

• Radioisotopes: Isotopes with radioactive properties.

Applications of Radioisotopes

1. Medicine

   • Radioactive Sodium: Used to detect blood clots.
     • Injected into the limb to study flow rate.
   • Radioactive Cobalt:
     • Utilized in cancer treatment to kill cancer cells due to gamma radiation.
   • Iodine Isotope: Assists in studying thyroid function.

2. Industry

   • Sealed Radioactive Sources:
     • Applied in industrial radiography, gauging, and mineral analysis.
   • Short-lived Radioactive Material:
     • Used for flow tracing and mixing measurements.
   • Gamma Sterilization:
     • Employed for sterilizing medical supplies, some commodities, and food preservation.
   • Nuclear Techniques:
     • Provide constant analysis and quick response for improved productivity and quality.

3. Agriculture

   • Sterilization of Male Insect Pupae:
     • Reduces insect population by releasing sterile males to mate with females, resulting in unfertilized eggs.
   • Genetic Modification:
     • Enhances resistance to pests and diseases.
     • Promotes early maturity, improved productivity, high nutritional value, and climate adaptability.

Summary

• Radioisotopes have versatile applications across medicine, industry, and agriculture.
• They contribute to medical diagnostics and treatment, industrial efficiency, and agricultural pest control and genetic advancements.