Radioactive Tracer
What is Radioactive Tracer?
A radioactive tracer is a radioisotope attached to or incorporated into a substance to allow monitoring of its distribution, movement, or chemical transformation within a system. By detecting the radiation emitted, researchers can follow the tracer's path through biological organisms, industrial processes, or environmental systems without disturbing the system significantly. Common tracers include carbon-14 (for metabolic studies), iodine-131 (thyroid function), and technetium-99m (medical imaging).
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
A radioactive tracer is a radioisotope attached to or incorporated into a substance to allow monitoring of its distribution, movement, or chemical transformation within a system. By detecting the radiation emitted, researchers can follow the tracer's path through biological organisms, industrial processes, or environmental systems without disturbing the system significantly. Common tracers include carbon-14 (for metabolic studies), iodine-131 (thyroid function), and technetium-99m (medical imaging).