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Radioisotopes, also known as radioactive tracers or labels, have many uses.
Some uses of radioisotopes are: Medical applications: Radioisotopes are used in many medical applications, including diagnosis and treatment. They are used in PET scans, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, external beam therapy, and brachytherapy. The most widely used radioisotope in medicine is technetium-99m, which is used in about 80% of nuclear medical procedures. Food irradiation: The radiation from some radioactive substances can be used to kill microorganisms on food, extending its shelf life. Produce such as tomatoes, mushrooms, sprouts, and berries are irradiated with the emissions from cobalt-60 or cesium-137. Radiocarbon dating: This method uses the naturally occurring radioisotope carbon-14 to estimate the age of carbon-bearing materials up to about 58,000 to 62,000 years old. Industrial radiography: Radioisotopes are used in industrial radiography, which uses a gamma source to conduct stress testing or check the integrity of welds. Fluid flow and filtration: Manufacturers use radioisotopes as tracers to monitor fluid flow and filtration, detect leaks, and gauge engine wear and corrosion of process equipment. Heat source for satellites: Scientists and engineers use radioactivity as a source of heat for satellites.
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