Chapter 25, Problem 96A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation : The question is to prepare a report that summarizes your findings on the radioisotopes used, their half-lives, and their limitations.

Concept Introduction: A radioactive isotope is an unstable chemical element that radiates as it breaks down and becomes more stable. Both the natural environment and a laboratory can produce radioisotopes. They are used in medical imaging research and therapy.

Answer to Problem 96A

The naturally occurring radioactive isotopes of radium, thorium, and uranium, etc are present in the rocks and soil.

Explanation of Solution

Given information:

Research methods used to date materials such as pottery, coral, and stone.

Rocks and soil contain naturally occurring radioactive isotopes of radium, thorium, and uranium, among other elements.

Radioactive isotope	Half-life	Limitations
Uranium (U-238)	4.5 billion years	Because of its radioactivity, it can have harmful health consequences and even death. Another problem is radioactive waste, which can leak radiation if it is not handled correctly or disposed of in a safe location. Such emissions have a long lifetime.
Radium (Ra-226)	1600 years	High radium levels can result in cancer (particularly bone cancer), anaemia, a blood issue, shattered teeth and cavities, and cataracts, growths in the eyes. Some of these medical issues take years to manifest.
Thorium (Th-232)		Ironically, the reason why thorium designs haven't yet achieved commercial viability is that making weapons is difficult. The race to develop atomic bombs, which led many nations to adopt uranium- and plutonium-based designs, is where nuclear power first emerged.

Conclusion

Hence, the naturally occurring radioactive isotopes of radium, thorium, and uranium, etc are present in the rocks and soil and their half-lives and limitations are tabulated above.