Radioactive isotopes

Definition

Radioactive isotopes are atoms of an element that have unstable nuclei and emit radiation as they decay to a stable form. These isotopes can be used in various scientific applications, including medical imaging and dating of archaeological finds.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Radioactive isotopes are also known as radioisotopes or radionuclides.
2. They decay at a predictable rate, which is measured by their half-life.
3. Carbon-14 is a commonly known radioactive isotope used in radiocarbon dating.
4. Radioisotopes release energy in the form of alpha, beta, or gamma radiation during decay.
5. Medical applications of radioisotopes include cancer treatment and diagnostic imaging.

Review Questions

• What is a radioactive isotope and how does it differ from a stable isotope?
• Explain the significance of half-life in the context of radioactive isotopes.
• Name two applications of radioactive isotopes in science or medicine.

Related terms

Half-Life: The time required for half the quantity of a radioactive isotope to decay.

Alpha Radiation: A type of radiation consisting of helium nuclei emitted by some radioactive substances.

Radiocarbon Dating: A method for determining the age of an object containing organic material by using the properties of carbon-14.