Phosphorus-32 By Lynda O

Essential component in living systems Description of the type of radiation it produces

Beta radiation

Blood level reading Explanation how the radioisotope is used in medicine or industry

Brain tumour

Phosphorus-32 is given to the patient to slow down the production of the dangerous cells within the bone marrow

Injection of Phosphorus-32 into the root systems of plants

Description of the benefits of the of using this radioisotope P-32 is a beta emitter, therefore a Geiger counter can be used to detect any spills Cannot directly penetrate through the layer of dead cells on the skin’s surface Cancer cells absorb more phosphorus, so when this isotope is put into the body they can be easily identified.

Description of the problems of using this radioisotope Low level radioactivity waste is produced Phosphorus-32 doesn’t have a very length half- life so it must be used quickly. Leukaemia is commonly seen in patients between 5-15 years after exposure

How do the benefits of using this radioisotope outweigh the problems associated? Proven to help and control many peoples cancers and in some cases eradicate them Not only does it benefits people with cancers but help people with other types of blood related diseases.