Question

Which of the following isotopes is most dangerous to Homo sapiens?

(a) phosphorus-32

(b) strontium-90

(c) caesium-137

(d) iodine-131.

Answer 1

Correct answer:- (b) strontium-90

Explanation:- The radioactive strontium – 90 can lead to various bone disorders and diseases, including bone cancer. It emits high energy beta radiations. Phosphorus – 32 also emit high energy beta radiations but they cannot penetrate human skin. Caesium – 137 (beta emitter) and iodine – 131 (P and y emitter) also pose danger to human health but not as much as strontium – 90 which is a long-lived radioactive element and tends to cycle like calcium.