Question

Why is it important that radioisotopes used in diagnostic tests have short half-lives? 20 A) These radioisotopes have a greater activity so they B) This minimizes the harmful side effects of the radiation. C) This is necessary so the radioisotopes will have high energy D) These radioisotopes are less expensive. E) These radioisotopes are more abundant in nature are easier to monitor

Answer 1

Option B) This minimizes the harmful side effects of the radiations

Step-by-step explanation:

Half-life is the time taken for the decay of an radio-active atom in which it disintegrates such that it becomes half of its value at the beginning.... The nuclei should be in active mode for a longer duration sufficient for the treatment of the condition but these nuclei should have a sufficient shorter half life so that they don't get enough time to cause any damage to the health of the person other than treating the cause.

A shorter half life gives the assurance that the radiation after the treatment will leave the body without getting accumulated and cause harm to the body cells and other organs.