Final answer:
Physical half-life of xenon-133 is a) 5.2 days
Step-by-step explanation:
Xenon-133 has a physical half-life of a) 5.2 days. The physical half-life represents the time it takes for half of a radioactive substance to undergo decay or transformation into a stable nuclide. In the case of Xenon-133, after 5.2 days, half of the initial amount of Xenon-133 will have decayed into other nuclides.
The physical half-life of a radioactive substance is a fundamental parameter that influences its behavior in various applications, including medical imaging and nuclear medicine. Xenon-133, in particular, is used as a radiotracer in ventilation studies of the lungs due to its radioactive decay characteristics and inert nature. The 5.2-day half-life allows for a suitable balance between the emission of radiation for imaging purposes and a manageable duration of exposure for the patient.
In summary, the physical half-life of Xenon-133 is 5.2 days, making it a valuable radionuclide in medical applications. Understanding the half-life of radioactive substances is crucial for determining their utility in different fields and ensuring safe and effective use in various scientific and medical procedures.