Dtracers ave a common application of radioisotopes. A tracer is a radioactive element whose pathway through which a chemical reaction can be followed. Tracers are commonly used in the medical field and in the study of plants and anlimals. Radioactive iodine-131 can be used to study the function of the thyroid gland assisting iin detecting disease. Sterilization of medical instruments and food is another common application of radiation. By subjecting the instruments and food te concentrated beams of radiation, we cain kill micro-organisms that cause contamination and disease, Because this is done with high energy radiation sources using electromagnetic energy, there is no fear of residual radiation. Also, the instruments and food may be handled without fear of radiation poisoming. DS Radiation lis used by test personnel who monitor materials and processes by nondestructive methods such as x-rays. Trained technicians use radiography to invage materials and products much like a dentist uses radiation to x-ray your teeth for cavities.> Smoke alarms contain a weak source made of Americium- 241. Alpha particles are emitted from here, whieh ionize the alir, so that the air conducts electricity and smalll current flows. If smoke enters the alarm, this absorbs the particles, the current reduces, and the alarm sounds, Seecause Gamma rays can kill living cells, they ave used) to {Kill cancer cells without having to resort to difficult surgery. This lis called "Radiotherapy", and works because cancer cells can't repair themselves when damaged by gamma rays, as healtiny cells can. it's vital te get the dose correct - too much and you'll damage too many healthy cells, too little and you won't stop the cancer from spreading in time.