How are beta particles used as tracers in medicine?

Answer 1

Alpha particles add two protons and two neutrons to an element during radioactive decay, while beta particles add no neutrons and subtract one proton during decay. An alpha particle is also equivalent to a helium nucleus.

Their uses are plentiful, but perhaps the most noted is their use in X-ray scans at hospitals. When a beta particle is streamed at lead (Pb), x-rays are emmited. This also works with tungsten (W).

Answer 2

Beta radiation can be of use in medicine. In certain conditions it is desirable to destroy some cells of an organ. In cancerous rumours it is necessary to destroy ALL tumour stem cells.

Assuming one can find a beta emitter that is absorbed sufficiently well in the target compared to normal tissue then we can use such an agent to destroy some cells.

Although mean distance travelled through tissue varies slightly, the typical distance is about 1cm.

I-131 is a beta emitter that is the most commonly used )eta emitter in radionuclide therapy. Iodine is absorbed by the thyroid gland. So I-131 can be used to destroy some thyroid cells and reduce overall thyroid function, which is desirable in patients with a "toxically" overactive thyroid. It can also be used to aid treatment of thyroid cancer.

Answer 3

Beta particles emitted by a radioactive tracer are used in medical imaging techniques such as positron emission tomography (PET) scans. These particles can be detected by a PET scanner to create detailed images of internal body structures and functions. By injecting tracers labeled with beta-emitting isotopes, doctors can track the flow of substances in the body for diagnostic purposes.

Answer 4

By making the the substance neutral and then adding them together