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Chapter 38: Problem 6

Why are iodine-131 and strontium-90 particularly dangerous radioisotopes?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Iodine-131 and strontium-90 are particularly dangerous radioisotopes because they can be absorbed by the human body in the same manner as regular iodine and calcium. The thyroid gland absorbs iodine-131 leading to potential thyroid diseases, while strontium-90 is absorbed by bone tissues causing possible bone disorders. Furthermore, both radioisotopes can infiltrate the food chain, thereby posing a prolonged risk of radiation exposure.

Step by step solution

01

Understand the Properties of Iodine-131

Iodine-131 is a radioisotope of iodine that emits beta and gamma radiation. It has a half-life of about 8 days. Iodine is readily absorbed by the thyroid gland in the human body. The reason why iodine-131 is particularly dangerous is due to its likely absorption by the thyroid gland. When iodine-131 is ingested or inhaled, the thyroid gland absorbs it much like regular iodine. Thus, the radiation damage is localized to the thyroid, potentially causing thyroid cancer or other thyroid problems.
02

Understand the Properties of Strontium-90

Strontium-90 is another radioisotope that emits beta radiation. It has a longer half-life of approximately 28 years. Strontium almost perfectly mimics calcium because of its similar properties. This means it is readily absorbed by bone tissue and teeth in the human body. Due to this, the absorbed strontium-90 remains in the body for a long time, more than a decade, causing prolonged radiation exposure, potentially damaging the bone marrow and possibly inducing bone cancer or leukemia.
03

Elaborate the Dangers of Both Radioisotopes

Both iodine-131 and strontium-90 are dangerous because they can infiltrate the food chain. For example, if iodine-131 is released into the atmosphere, it can settle on grass, where it can then be consumed by cows and enter the milk supply. Similarly, strontium-90 can contaminate the food chain through plants and animals. Since these radioisotopes have a similar behaviour to regular iodine and calcium in biological systems, they cannot be easily removed or avoided, making them particularly dangerous.

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