Radioactive isotopes, or radioisotopes, are variants of chemical elements with the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons in their nuclei, making them unstable and prone to emit radiation during radioactive decay.
An example is **carbon-14**, used in radiocarbon dating, where the decay of carbon-14 to nitrogen-14 is used to determine the age of organic materials.
Radioisotopes like technetium-99m are used in diagnostic imaging techniques like gamma scintigraphy to visualize internal organs and detect abnormalities.
Radioactive sources like cobalt-60 or targeted isotopes are utilized in radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissues.
Radioactive iodine-131 treats hyperactive thyroid glands and thyroid cancer by selectively damaging thyroid tissue.
Radioisotopes help track nutrient uptake and soil erosion, enhancing agricultural productivity and soil management.
Isotopes like cobalt-60 can be used to sterilize insects, reducing pest populations and protecting crops.
Radioisotopes inspect welds, detect leaks, and assess material thickness in industries like construction and manufacturing.
Isotopes are used in reservoir studies to determine fluid flow, identify well locations, and optimize oil and gas production.