An isotope with an unstable nucleus that spontaneously emits radiation. The radiation emitted includes alpha particles, nucleons, electrons, and gamma rays.
An isotope which sends out radiation, used in radiotherapy and scanning.
An unstable atom with particles, which when they are released by the atom also results in the release of energy as α, β, or γ rays.
An isotope in which the nucleus is unstable and emits ionizing radiation such as gamma rays.
Amid the vast array of chemical elements, there exists a unique subset referred to as radioactive elements. These elements have been intentionally rendered radioactive through a process known as irradiation, whereby the nuclei of specific atoms are exposed to radiation. As a result, radioactive isotopes are generated, imbuing the element with its distinctive radioactive properties.
An isotope refers to one of multiple atoms that share an identical number of protons but differ in the number of neutrons within their nuclear composition. In nuclear scanning, radioactive isotopes serve as diagnostic agents employed for medical purposes.
Elements made radioactive through exposure in an atomic reactor. Chemicals that are known to target specific areas of the body can be used as tracers. These tracers can be tracked using a Geiger counter to study bodily functions, or they can be utilized for the impact of their radioactive emissions on the targeted area. For example, since iodine naturally targets the thyroid gland in the body, radioactive iodine is used to treat its overactivity. These elements are also referred to as tracer elements.