Why is strontium-90 an especially dangerous radioactive isotope?
A) It has an exceptionally short half-life and rapidly settles to the ground when carried by winds.
B) It has exceptionally intense radioactivity and is a cause of sudden death in cows.
C) It is deposited in bones and teeth and is not readily eliminated from the human body.
D) All of these are correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Strontium-90 is dangerous because it is deposited in bones and teeth and is not readily eliminated from the human body. This makes it a significant long-term health hazard, as the decay of the isotope can damage bone marrow and increase the risk of cancer. Option A is incorrect because strontium-90 actually has a half-life of around 29 years, which is relatively long-lasting. Option B is also incorrect because sudden death in cows is associated with a different radioactive isotope, radon-222.

Why Is Strontium-90 an Especially Dangerous Radioactive Isotope