Physics 4.3.3

Question 1

What is a ‘Medical Tracer’?

Answer 1

A Radioactive Isotope that can be Used to Track the Movement of Substances, like Blood, around the Body.

Question 2

Why is Gamma Radiation often Used in Medical Tracers?

Answer 2

Because of their High Penetrating Power, they can be Detected from Outside the Body. Because of their Low Ionising Power, they cannot Cause any Substantial Harm to the Patient.

Question 3

Isotopes with Short ___ ___ are chosen to further Reduce the Risk of Harm to the Patient.

Answer 3

Half-Lives.

Question 4

What is ‘Radiotherapy’?

Answer 4

The Treatment of Cancer Using Radiation.

Question 5

Radiation can Kill ___ Cells.

Answer 5

Living.

Question 6

Gamma Radiation is Used to ___ Medical Equipment. Why?

Answer 6

Sterilise. Because it is the Most Penetrating Radiation.

Question 7

What are the Risks of Using Radiation in Medicine? (3)

Answer 7

-Kill or Damage Living Cells.

-Cause Cancer.

-Cause Mutations.