Question

Each of the following isotopes has been used medically for the purpose indicated. Suggest reasons why the particular element might have been chosen for this purpose. a. cobalt- 57, for study of the body's use of vitamin \(B_{12}\) b. calcium- 47 , for study of bone metabolism c. iron-59, for study of red blood cell function

Short answer

Cobalt-57 is used for studying vitamin B12 metabolism because it is a part of the cobalamin molecule and its gamma radiation can be detected to visualize B12 distribution. Calcium-47 helps in studying bone metabolism as it is a primary component of bones, and its radiation can be monitored for bone growth and health. Iron-59 assists in red blood cell function study due to its presence in hemoglobin, and its radiation can provide data on iron metabolism and overall health.

Step-by-step solution

Isotope a: Cobalt-57

Cobalt-57 is used for studying the body's usage of vitamin B12. Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, contains a cobalt ion at its center. Therefore, using Cobalt-57 as an isotopic tracer can help researchers visualize the distribution and metabolism of vitamin B12 in the body. This is possible because the radioactive decay of Cobalt-57 emits gamma radiation, which can be detected and imaged using special instruments.

Isotope b: Calcium-47

Calcium-47 is used for studying bone metabolism. As bones are primarily composed of calcium, using Calcium-47, a radioactive isotope of calcium, makes it easier to study the uptake, distribution, and metabolism of calcium in the bone tissues. The emitted radiation from Calcium-47 decay can be detected and measured to monitor the turnover and growth of bone, which provides vital information about the overall health of the skeletal system.

Isotope c: Iron-59

Iron-59 is used for the study of red blood cell function. Iron is an essential component of hemoglobin, which is responsible for the transportation of oxygen in red blood cells. By using a radioactive isotope of iron, such as Iron-59, researchers can trace the distribution, uptake, and metabolism of iron within red blood cells. The emitted radiation from Iron-59 decay can be detected and measured, providing valuable data about red blood cell function and overall health.

Key concepts

Cobalt-57 and Vitamin B12

Understanding the human body's utilization of vitamin B12 is crucial, and Cobalt-57 plays a pivotal role in this process. Since vitamin B12 naturally contains the mineral cobalt within its structure, Cobalt-57, as a radioactive isotope, is uniquely suited for tracing the path and usage of B12 after it enters the body.

When Cobalt-57 is incorporated into vitamin B12 supplements or dietary sources, it enables researchers to follow its metabolic journey using gamma radiation detection techniques. This noninvasive imaging helps in mapping the absorption and dissemination of vitamin B12 across different organs, particularly in the liver, which is a primary storage site for this vitamin. Given that B12 is vital for nerve function and the synthesis of red blood cells, insights gained from Cobalt-57-based studies are invaluable in diagnosing and understanding conditions like pernicious anemia.

Importance of Vitamin B12:

• Vital for neurological function
• Crucial for red blood cell formation
• Required for DNA synthesis
• Helps in fatty acid metabolism and energy production

Additionally, these studies can reveal if there are malabsorption issues, contributing to tailored treatments for deficiencies.

Calcium-47 and Bone Metabolism

Calcium-47 is an exceptional tool for illuminating the complexities of bone metabolism. Our skeletal system is largely made up of calcium, and hence the injection of Calcium-47 offers an accurate method to study how bones metabolize this mineral.

Once introduced into the body, the pathway of Calcium-47 can be closely monitored through the radiation it emits. This enables the assessment of how effectively bones are absorbing calcium — a process directly tied to bone health. Osteoporosis and other metabolic bone diseases can be better understood by observing discrepancies in calcium uptake, making Calcium-47 a powerful ally in the fight against such conditions.

Functional Insights:

• Monitors bone growth and healing
• Assesses bone density changes
• Detects calcium absorption irregularities
• Evaluates the effectiveness of osteoporosis treatments

Moreover, orthopedic research, dental implant studies, and the investigation of metabolic disorders all benefit from the insights provided by Calcium-47 isotope analysis.

Iron-59 and Red Blood Cell Function

Iron-59 has a designated role in the study of hematology, particularly concerning red blood cell function. As iron is integral to the formation of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen throughout the body, tracking iron's movement is essential to understand the lifecycle and health of red blood cells.

Introducing Iron-59 into the bloodstream, physicians can trace its absorption from the digestive tract, incorporation into hemoglobin in the bone marrow, and eventual circulation within red blood cells. This detailed information is instrumental in diagnosing an array of conditions, from anemias to iron overload disorders.

Healthcare Applications:

• Diagnoses various types of anemia
• Evaluates iron-deficiency treatments
• Investigates iron metabolism disorders
• Monitors effects of blood transfusions

Through the decay and resultant gamma radiation of Iron-59, we gain a clearer understanding of red blood cell dynamics and can better address issues related to their function and longevity.