Question detail
Which of the following is a reason for choosing a radioactive isotope for medical use?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Hazards and uses of radioactive emissions and of background radiation
Question
- A. Its ability to emit alpha particles
- B. Its half-life must be suitable for the procedure
- C. Its cost-effectiveness
- D. Its availability in hospitals
Answer
The correct answer is B: Its half-life must be suitable for the procedure.
Explanation
The correct answer is B: Its half-life must be suitable for the procedure. This supports the learning objective "Explain why medical tracers should have short enough half-lives to limit dose." in Different half-lives of radioactive isotopes because it uses the correct atomic and nuclear radiation relationship for Hazards and uses of radioactive emissions and of background radiation. The other options are less suitable because they do not match the required Different half-lives of radioactive isotopes idea: Its ability to emit alpha particles; Its cost-effectiveness; Its availability in hospitals.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Half-Life Duration
Students often think that a short half-life means the radioactive material is less harmful overall, without considering the implications for medical tracers.
Emphasize that medical tracers need short half-lives to ensure they decay quickly after use, limiting the patient's exposure to radiation.
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