Autoradiography is a technique that uses radioactive substances and photographic plates or films to localize radioactive isotopes in biological specimens. It works by exposing photographic emulsions to radiation emitted from radioactive samples placed in direct contact. Over several days, the radiation exposes silver halide crystals in the emulsion, leaving a dark image that can then be viewed under a microscope. The technique allows researchers to study the distribution and movement of labeled compounds in cells, tissues, and organs.