Question 1: Explain in your own words how the discovery of the atom has impacted the development of medical imaging techniques such as PET scans.

Answer: The discovery of the atom led to the understanding of atomic structure and radioactivity, which enabled the development of nuclear medicine techniques like PET scans that detect radioactive isotopes within the body for imaging purposes.

Question 2: Define the term 'radioisotope' and describe its significance in medical treatments.

Answer: A radioisotope is an unstable isotope that emits radiation as it decays; it is significant in medicine for diagnostic imaging and targeted radiotherapy.

Question 3: Identify which scientist proposed the plum pudding model of the atom and briefly describe its main feature.

Answer: J.J. Thomson proposed the plum pudding model, which described the atom as a sphere of positive charge with embedded negatively charged electrons.

Question 4: Calculate the number of protons, neutrons, and electrons in a neutral atom of Carbon-14.

Answer: Protons: 6, Electrons: 6, Neutrons: 8

Question 5: Describe the significance of the Rutherford gold foil experiment in understanding atomic structure.

Answer: It demonstrated that the atom has a small, dense, positively charged nucleus, leading to the nuclear model of the atom.

Question 6: In medical science, which radioactive isotope is commonly used in radiation therapy for cancer treatment, and why?

Answer: Cobalt-60 is used because it emits gamma rays that can target and destroy cancer cells effectively.

Question 7: Identify the variables involved in a theoretical experiment to test the effect of different radioactive isotopes in medical imaging.

Answer: Variables include the type of isotope used (independent variable), the radiation emitted (dependent variable), isotope dose, patient body part, and safety precautions.

Question 8: Describe how the discovery of isotopes advanced the development of more accurate medical diagnostic techniques.

Answer: The discovery of isotopes allowed for the identification and use of specific radioactive forms of elements, improving imaging accuracy and enabling targeted treatments.

Question 9: Explain the impact of the discovery of the neutron on the understanding of atomic mass and stability, especially in relation to medical isotopes.

Answer: The neutron's discovery explained the difference in atomic mass among isotopes and contributed to understanding isotope stability, crucial for selecting suitable medical radioisotopes.

Question 10: What safety precautions should be considered when handling radioactive materials in medical applications?

Answer: Precautions include using shielding to protect from radiation exposure, wearing protective clothing, limiting exposure time, proper storage and disposal of radioactive materials, and following safety protocols.