What’s an Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometer?

An isotope ratio mass spectrometer measures the ratios of different isotopes of elements, providing information about a sample’s age and origin. Samples are prepared and introduced into the instrument, where they are converted into a gas and ionized before being separated based on their masses. The resulting proportions of isotopes can be calculated and used […]

What’s an isotope?

Isotopes are variants of elements with different atomic weights due to different numbers of neutrons. They have similar chemical properties but differ in physical characteristics. Unstable isotopes decay into other elements and emit radiation. The strong nuclear force binds protons and neutrons in the nucleus, but too many neutrons can make an isotope unstable. Radioactive […]

What’s an isotope scan?

Isotope scans use a radioactive substance to create images of the body’s internal organs. The substance is ingested and migrates to the targeted area, where a special camera and computer create images based on the gamma rays emitted. Isotope scans are effective in diagnosing conditions and are used to create images of the bones, lungs, […]

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