Cobalt 60 is used in hospitals mainly as a source of
Correct answer: B. gamma rays for treating cancer
- A. alpha particles for imaging
- B. gamma rays for treating cancer
- C. neutrons for sterilising instruments
- D. X rays for dental work
Explanation
Its penetrating gamma radiation can be focused on a deep tumour from outside the body, and because dividing cells are more sensitive, the cancer is damaged more than the surrounding tissue. The same gamma source is also used to sterilise medical equipment. Alpha particles cannot penetrate the skin and so are useless for external imaging or therapy.
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About Biological and Medical Uses of Radiation
Radiation in medicine includes X-rays and gamma rays for imaging, radioactive tracers for diagnosis, and controlled radiation for destroying cancerous tissue. The topic also covers CT scans, PET imaging, radiotherapy, sterilisation, half-life and dosage, alongside biological damage, shielding and the need to balance diagnostic or therapeutic benefit against exposure.
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