Real-Life Applications of Gamma Rays: Medical Imaging and Cancer Treatment
Discover how gamma rays are crucial in medical imaging & cancer treatment, featuring PET scans & radiotherapy techniques.
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Gamma rays are used in medical imaging and cancer treatment. For example, PET scans (Positron Emission Tomography) rely on gamma rays to create detailed images of the body, aiding in the diagnosis and monitoring of diseases. Moreover, gamma rays are used in radiotherapy to target and destroy cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
FAQs & Answers
- What are gamma rays used for? Gamma rays are primarily used in medical imaging, like PET scans, and in cancer treatments through radiotherapy.
- How do PET scans work? PET scans utilize gamma rays emitted by radiotracers to produce detailed images of the body's internal processes.
- What is radiotherapy? Radiotherapy is a medical treatment that uses high doses of radiation, including gamma rays, to target and destroy cancer cells.
- Are gamma rays harmful? While gamma rays can be harmful due to their high energy, they are used in controlled doses in medical applications to minimize damage to healthy tissue.