Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A radioactive tracer is a chemical compound in which one or more atoms have been replaced by a radioisotope. These tracers are used to track the distribution and movement of substances within systems.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Radioactive tracers are widely used in medical imaging techniques, such as PET scans.
They help in studying metabolic processes and diagnosing diseases by emitting radiation that can be detected externally.
Commonly used radioisotopes for tracers include Carbon-14, Iodine-131, and Technetium-99m.
In environmental studies, they are used to trace the movement of contaminants or nutrients through ecosystems.
The safety protocols for handling radioactive tracers are stringent due to their potential health risks.
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Related terms
Radioisotope: An isotope of an element that has an unstable nucleus and emits radiation during its decay to a stable form.
PET Scan: (Positron Emission Tomography) A medical imaging technique that uses radioactive tracers to visualize metabolic processes in the body.
Half-Life: The time required for half the atoms in a sample of a radioactive substance to decay into another form.