Uses of Isotopes

Cancer radiation treatment

Cobalt-60.Formerly used for external beam radiotherapy
Iodine-131. Widely used in treating thyroid cancer and in
imaging the thyroid; also in diagnosis of abnormal liver
function, renal (kidney) blood flow and urinary tract
obstruction. A strong gamma emitter, but used for beta
therapy.

Computer imaging techniques

The gamma photons are detected and the data analyzed by a computer to yield images.
Different nuclides are used to study different parts of the body.
Fluorine-18 for bones ,Glucose with carbon-11 for the brain

Radiocarbon dating
The carbon 14 is used that can measure to about
50,000
years ago.

Food irradiation
Cobalt-60 irradiation facility is used to test irradiation as a tool to ensure food safety.

Radioactive tracers
Sodium-24 is used to track the leak
in oil pipes and ventilating systems