Have you ever heard of cesium-137? It’s something that you may have encountered in your daily life, without even knowing it. In this article, we’ll discuss what cesium-137 is, why it’s important, and how it affects us. So if you’re curious to learn more about what cesium-137 is and why it’s so significant, then you’ve come to the right place!
What is Cesium 137?
Cesium 137, also known as Cs-137, is a radioactive isotope that is produced when nuclear fission occurs. The half-life of this isotope is around 3 minutes, which makes it highly radioactive and dangerous if ingested or breathed in. It can also be found naturally in the environment, but in low amounts.
Uses of Cesium 137
Cesium 137 is used in medical applications such as cancer radiation therapy, as well as in research to detect metabolic diseases. It is also one of the most common sources of gamma rays in industrial applications. These gamma rays are used to sterilize medical equipment, and in radiography and radiotherapeutic processes. Cesium 137 is also used for geological research, mineral identification, and geophysical prospecting.
At its core, cesium-137 is a radioactive isotope that can cause significant health risks in people and the environment if it is not handled with care. This is why it is necessary to understand what cesium-137 is and why it is important. Knowing the risks, procedures and health regulation techniques associated with cesium-137 is essential in order to prevent potential disasters.