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Modern Uses of Radioactive Isotopes

The past one hundred years has brought the incredible field of nuclear chemistry into all of our lives. We derive numerous benefits from it's applications, yet in most cases, we aren't even aware of them.

In this section, Smoke Detectors and Americium-241


How many of us have smoke detectors in our house? Chances are that a great number of homes have had one or more of these devices installed as an early warning system in case of fire. What most consumers don't know is that many of these units contain a small amount of americium-241. By utilizing the radioactive properties of this material, smoke from a fire can be detected at a very early stage. This early warning capability has saved many lives. In fact, studies have shown that 80% of fire injuries and 80% of fire fatalities occur in homes without smoke detectors.

Labels: Modern Uses of Radioactive Isotopes, Radioactive Isotopes, Smoke Detectors

Science, at a basic stage attempts to answer questions (such as "why are we aggressive) through careful inspection and collection of data. These answers can then (at a more complex or higher level) be used to further our knowledge of us and our world, as well as help us predict subsequent events and behavior.

At a Practical level, methodology helps US understand and evaluate the merit of all the information we're confronted with everyday. For example, do you believe in the following studies?

1) study indicated that the life span of left-handed people is significantly shorter than those who are right hand dominant.
2) study demonstrated a link between smoking and poor grades.

They are also practical in the work place:

1) Mental Health Profession - relies on research to develop new therapies, and learn which therapies are appropriate and effective for different types of problems and people.
2) Business World - marketing strategies, hiring, employee productivity, etc.

Labels: Mental Health, Science, Why Are Research Methods Important?