Medical Uses of Gamma Rays: Applications in Treatment and Imaging
Explore how gamma rays are utilized in medicine for cancer treatment, sterilization, and diagnostic imaging.
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Cancer treatment: Gamma rays are used in radiation therapy to target and destroy cancer cells. Sterilization: They sterilize medical equipment by killing bacteria and pathogens. Imaging: Gamma rays help in diagnostic imaging, such as in PET scans, to visualize internal organs and detect diseases. Inspecting sealed containers: They are used to check the integrity and contents of sealed packages and containers without opening them. These applications showcase the versatility and significance of gamma rays in the medical field.
FAQs & Answers
- What are gamma rays and how do they work? Gamma rays are high-energy electromagnetic radiation used in medical applications to treat diseases, particularly cancer, and for diagnostic purposes.
- How are gamma rays used in radiation therapy? In radiation therapy, gamma rays target and destroy cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.
- Can gamma rays sterilize medical equipment? Yes, gamma rays effectively sterilize medical equipment by killing harmful bacteria and pathogens.
- What is the role of gamma rays in diagnostic imaging? Gamma rays are used in diagnostic imaging, such as in PET scans, to visualize internal organs and detect various diseases.