GCSE Physics (AQA)

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Radioactive Tracers

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Atomic structure Hazards and uses of radioactive emissions and of background radiation

Radioactive Tracers

1:52 Radiation in Medicine
Spec 4.4.3.3
Previous Hazards & Half Lives Next Choosing Radioactive Tracers
  • Radioactive tracers are used to diagnose issues inside a patient's body.
  • A small radioactive source is attached to a biochemical agent.
  • The agent can enter the body via ingestion, inhalation, or injection, depending on the organ being examined.
  • The radioactive isotope added to the agent should have a reasonable half-life and be a beta or gamma emitter.
  • For examining lungs, the tracer is best inhaled by the patient.
  • The tracer travels with air to the lungs and is absorbed by lung tissue.
  • The radioactive source emits radiation from the organ to the outside of the body.
  • Beta and gamma radiation pass through tissue and are detected to map the biochemical agent's location inside the body.
  • Mapping the lung using radiation detected from different angles helps deduce the agent's location.
  • Differences in radiation absorption between lungs can indicate potential problems.
  • Understanding the basic process of using tracers is important for exams.

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