Problem 23 - General Chemistry: Principles and Modern Applications

Question

The following radioactive isotopes have applications in medicine. Write their symbols in the form \(\&\) E. (a) cobalt- \(60 ;\) (b) phosphorus- \(32 ;\) (c) iron-59; (d) radium-226.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Isotopic symbols are: \(_{27}^{60}Co\), \(_{15}^{32}P\), \(_{26}^{59}Fe\), and \(_{88}^{226}Ra\).

Step 1: Write the symbol for Cobalt-60

Cobalt (Co) has an atomic number of \(27\) and its isotopic mass is given as \(60\). Hence, the symbol for Cobalt-60 is \(_{27}^{60}Co.

Step 2: Write the symbol for Phosphorus-32

Phosphorus (P) has an atomic number of \(15\) and its isotopic mass is given as \(32\). Hence, the symbol for Phosphorus-32 is \(_{15}^{32}P.

Step 3: Write the symbol for Iron-59

Iron (Fe) has an atomic number of \(26\) and its isotopic mass is given as \(59\). Hence, the symbol for Iron-59 is \(_{26}^{59}Fe.

Step 4: Write the symbol for Radium-226

Radium (Ra) has an atomic number of \(88\) and its isotopic mass is given as \(226\). Hence, the symbol for Radium-226 is \(_{88}^{226}Ra.

Key Concepts

Cobalt-60

Cobalt-60 is a radioactive isotope of cobalt that has significant applications in various fields, especially in medicine. It is denoted by the isotopic symbol \( _{27}^{60}Co \). Cobalt-60 is known for its ability to emit \( \gamma \)-rays, which are powerful and penetrating forms of electromagnetic radiation. These properties make Cobalt-60 highly valuable in cancer treatment.

In radiotherapy, Cobalt-60 is used in machines called cobalt therapy units. These units direct the \( \gamma \)-rays precisely at cancerous tumors in the body, thereby reducing damage to healthy tissues.
Additionally, Cobalt-60 is utilized in sterilizing medical equipment and food irradiation, as it effectively kills bacteria and other pathogens. This process ensures the safety and long shelf life of products.

Overall, Cobalt-60 plays a crucial role in modern medical treatments and industrial applications, showcasing the importance of radioactive isotopes.

Phosphorus-32

Phosphorus-32 is another important radioactive isotope, symbolized by \( _{15}^{32}P \). It is commonly employed in biochemical and medical studies.
As a beta-emitter, Phosphorus-32 releases \( \beta \)-particles, which have both diagnostic and therapeutic uses.

In the medical field, Phosphorus-32 is particularly valuable in treating certain types of blood disorders, such as polycythemia vera, a condition characterized by an overproduction of red blood cells.
In such treatments, the \( \beta \)-particles help reduce the excessive number of blood cells, alleviating symptoms.

Moreover, Phosphorus-32 is used in research laboratories as a tracer to study DNA and RNA synthesis, among other cellular processes.
By incorporating this isotope into molecules of interest, researchers can track the paths and quantities in biochemical reactions, which aids in a deeper understanding of cell metabolism and genetics.

Isotopic Symbols

Isotopic symbols provide a concise way to express information about an isotope, which is essential for scientists and researchers. These symbols consist of two parts: the atomic number and the mass number.

The atomic number is denoted by the subscript and represents the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom. This number is unique to each element and defines its position in the periodic table.
The mass number is shown as the superscript and indicates the total number of protons and neutrons present in the nucleus.

An example is the symbol \( _{27}^{60}Co \) for Cobalt-60:

• The subscript 27 indicates Cobalt's atomic number, meaning it has 27 protons.
• The superscript 60 is the mass number, showing the sum of protons and neutrons.

This format is universally adopted and helps in the clear identification and study of different isotopes, simplifying complex scientific communication.

Medical Applications of Isotopes

Radioactive isotopes have revolutionized the field of medicine with their wide-ranging applications that enhance both diagnostic and therapeutic techniques.
These isotopes emit various types of radiation, such as \( \alpha \)-particles, \( \beta \)-particles, and \( \gamma \)-rays, each having unique uses in medical science.

In cancer therapy, isotopes like Cobalt-60 are pivotal as they target and destroy cancerous cells with minimal harm to surrounding tissues.
In diagnostics, isotopes are employed in imaging techniques like PET scans, where they help visualize organs and detect abnormalities with precision.

For example, the use of isotopes in bone cancer treatment helps to accurately locate and target tumors, providing personalized medicine approaches that enhance treatment outcomes.
Additionally, isotopes are indispensable in sterilizing medical instruments, ensuring they are free from microorganisms and safe for patient use.

Thus, radioactive isotopes hold immense promise in advancing health care, offering solutions that are both powerful and precise, contributing extensively to the modern medical toolset.