Isotopes are atoms of the same element that have different numbers of neutrons. Radioactive isotopes such as carbon-14 are unstable, causing their nuclei to decay and release radiation and energy. Radioisotopes have a measurable half-life and can be used to detect leaks in pipes, treat cancer through radiotherapy, and sterilize medical equipment by killing germs and bacteria.

1. Isotopes and radioactivity
Mr Abdulhamid
For SCTuition Centre

2. Isotopes of carbon
Look at these atoms:
• what do they have in common?
• What is not common to them?
Isotopes are atoms
of the same element,
with different
numbers of
neutrons.

3. Radioactive isotopes
This is
radioactive
C-14 is radioactive
because it’s nucleus is
unstable.
The atom decays to
release:
• radiation ( rays and
particles) and
• a large amount of
energy.
What is half-life of a radioisotope?

4. Test your
knowledge

5. Test your
knowledge

6. Making use of radioisotopes
To check for leaks
• Radioisotopes are added to oil and gas
in pipes. Leaks can be detected using
Geiger counter.
To treat cancer
• Cobalt-60 is used as a radiotherapy to
cure cancer cells
To kill germs and bacteria
• Cobalt-60 and cesium-137 are used to
sterilize syringes and other disposable
medical equipment and to kill bacteria
that cause food to decay.

7. Test your
knowledge

8. Test your
knowledge

9. Test your
knowledge

10. Test your
knowledge