Chemistry HESI A2 Practice Test Related

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Radioactive isotopes are frequently used in medicine. What kind of half-life would a medical isotope probably have?

  • A. Seconds-long
  • B. Days-long
  • C. Years-long
  • D. Many years long
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Medical isotopes used in diagnosis and treatment need to have a relatively short half-life to minimize radiation exposure to patients. If the half-life were too long (such as many years) or even years-long, the radiation would persist for too long and could be harmful to the patient. Seconds-long half-lives would not provide enough time for the isotope to be effective. Days-long half-lives strike a balance between providing enough time for the isotope to be used effectively and minimizing radiation exposure.