Radioactivity is a naturally occurring phenomenon, the result of certain atomic nuclei emitting energy in the form of particles or electromagnetic radiation. In the late 19th century, discoveries of radioactivity by Antoine Henri Becquerel marked a significant turning point in nuclear physics. It opened the door to further exploration of the atomic nucleus and its components. Radioactivity has diverse applications and consequences, from life-saving medical treatments to posing potential environmental hazards.
The radioactivity process occurs when an unstable atom’s nucleus undergoes a transformation to achieve a more stable state. This transformation can occur through three primary modes of radioactive decay: alpha, beta, and gamma.
Alpha decay involves an alpha particle’s emission, consisting of two protons and two neutrons. Due to their relatively high mass and charge, alpha particles have limited penetration capabilities and are generally stopped by a sheet of paper or human skin. However, alpha-emitting materials can be extremely hazardous to living organisms if ingested or inhaled.
Beta decay occurs when a neutron within the nucleus is transformed into a proton or vice versa, accompanied by the emission of an electron (beta-minus decay) or positron (beta-plus decay). Beta particles have greater penetration capabilities than alpha particles but can be stopped by a few millimetres of plastic or aluminium sheet.
Gamma decay is the emission of high-energy photons known as gamma rays. These electromagnetic waves have no charge or mass and can penetrate most materials, requiring several centimetres of lead or concrete to shield them effectively. Gamma radiation is often emitted alongside alpha or beta decay as the nucleus transitions to a lower energy state.
Radioactivity has a wide array of applications, particularly in medicine and industry. For example, radioisotopes are commonly used as tracers for diagnostic purposes, as they can be easily detected when introduced into the body. Additionally, radiotherapy is an essential tool in the fight against cancer, as targeted doses of ionising radiation can damage or destroy malignant cells.
In the realm of industry, radioisotopes are employed in various processes, such as radiography, which utilises gamma radiation to inspect materials for structural integrity, and nucleonic gauges, which are used to measure the thickness or density of materials.
You are here:
home »
By
| 8 minutes of readingExplore the essentials of Radiation Safety and Dosimetry to ensure patient safety and occupational protection in healthcare settings.
Radiation Safety in Practice: A Dosimetry Scenario Read Article »
By
| 15 minutes of readingIodine-123 in nuclear medicine enables accurate imaging, particularly for thyroid disorders, neuroendocrine tumours, and neurological conditions.
Iodine-123: A Key Radioisotope in Nuclear Medicine Read Article »
By
| 29 minutes of readingThis mini-review summarises carbon-14 radiolabelling principles, synthesis, analysis, applications, safety, regulations, and emerging innovations.
Carbon-14 Radiolabelling: Theory, Methods, and Applications in Research Read Article »
By
| 7 minutes of readingUncover the key uses of Carbon-14 radiotracers. Learn how they contribute to environmental science and biochemical studies.
Why Carbon-14 Still Rules Radiotracing Science Read Article »
By
| 8 minutes of readingDiscover how carbon-14 isotope labelling enhances the production of radiotracers in drug development and life sciences.
Rewriting Molecules at the Last Minute: The Power of Late-Stage Carbon-14 Labelling Read Article »
By
| 7 minutes of readingUnderstand the factors affecting Carbon-14 stability in pharmaceuticals and best practices for handling radiolabelled APIs.
Carbon-14 Stability in Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients Read Article »
By
| 8 minutes of readingLearn about the historical significance and scientific insights of the Calvin cycle in energy conversion and plant health.
Unravelling the Calvin Cycle: Melvin Calvin’s Pathway to Photosynthetic Power Read Article »
By
| 7 minutes of readingDiscover how the radiocarbon dating discovery changed science. From archaeology to climatology, carbon-14 has remarkable applications
Unearthing Time: The Discovery of Carbon-14 and How It Revolutionised Science Read Article »
By
| 9 minutes of readingYttrium-90 BetaGlue utilises polymerising microspheres to deliver precise brachytherapy, enhancing tumour control and improving patient outcomes.
Yttrium-90 BetaGlue: A Transforming Approach to Brachytherapy for Cancer Treatment Read Article »
By
| 7 minutes of readingLiquid scintillation counting enables precise detection of low-energy isotopes, revolutionising environmental and biomedical research.
Illuminating the Unseen: Liquid Scintillation Counting for Radioactive Measurement Read Article »
By
| 7 minutes of readingRadioactive decay is measured using specific units that help ensure safety, accuracy, and proper scientific understanding globally.
Units of Radioactivity: Unveiling the Power of Radiation Read Article »
By
| 9 minutes of readingRadioactivity measurement ensures accurate detection and quantification of radiation levels for safety and regulatory compliance.
Radioactivity Measurement and Traceability in Radiation Science Read Article »
By
| 11 minutes of readingRadioactive transformations, including alpha, beta, and gamma decay, play crucial roles in both natural phenomena and technological advancements.
Understanding Radioactive Transformations to Nuclear Decay Processes Read Article »
By
| 17 minutes of readingNuclear medicine has transformed healthcare over a century, innovating in diagnostics and treatments significantly.
History of Nuclear Medicine: A Century of Innovation and Impact Read Article »
By
| 7 minutes of readingHarmonised nomenclature recommendations for radiopharmaceutical terminology.
