Chapter 16, Problem 40R

To determine

To Explain:Strontium is dangerous to the human body.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Strontium and calcium belong to the same group. but strontium is harmful for the human body and calcium is used by the body to make the bones stronger.

Strontium and calcium belong to the same group. Hence, they both of them exhibit the same chemical properties. Calcium is necessary for the bones and teeth formation. But $\text{Sr}-90$ is harmful for human body because of its radioactive nature. Its radioactive half-life is $28.1\text{yr}$ . It emits harmful radiations for a long time and tissue is damaged if a person is in contact for long time with these radiations.

Conclusion:

Strontium is dangerous because of its radioactive nature.