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4 (a) Many different types of radioactive isotope are used for the diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 4 - 2015 - Paper 1
Question 4
4 (a) Many different types of radioactive isotope are used for the diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. (i) Iodine-123 is used as a radioactive tracer to ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:4 (a) Many different types of radioactive isotope are used for the diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 4 - 2015 - Paper 1
Step 1
Step 2
Explain why radium-223 is suitable for use inside the body to treat cancers.
Answer
Radium-223 is suitable for use inside the body because its half-life of 11.4 days allows it to target cancer cells effectively without remaining in the body for too long. Additionally, its emission of alpha radiation is beneficial as it minimizes damage to surrounding healthy tissue while delivering targeted treatment to cancerous areas.
Step 3
Explain how using radiotherapy in this way is helpful to patients.
Answer
Using radiotherapy for palliative care helps alleviate pain and improve the quality of life for patients with incurable cancers. It can shrink tumors, reducing symptoms and distress, thus providing meaningful relief even in advanced stages of the disease.