cesium 137
Definition
Noun: A radioactive isotope of the chemical element cesium (symbol Cs), with an atomic mass of 137. It is a common fission product in nuclear reactors and nuclear weapons, and is used as a source of gamma radiation in medical and industrial applications.
Usage
This term is used specifically in scientific, medical, and industrial contexts to refer to this particular radioactive isotope. It is often discussed in relation to nuclear safety, radiation therapy, and environmental contamination. - The soil sample was tested for contamination by cesium 137. - Cesium 137 is employed in certain types of radiation therapy for cancer.
Advanced Usage
- Environmental Hazard: Cesium 137 is a significant long-term environmental contaminant following nuclear accidents due to its relatively long half-life of about 30 years and its chemical similarity to potassium, which allows it to enter the food chain.
- Decades after the accident, cesium 137 remains detectable in the region's ecosystems.
Variants and Related Words
- Caesium-137: The British English spelling variant.
- Cs-137: A common abbreviated form used in scientific notation.
- Radiocesium: A general term for radioactive isotopes of cesium, which includes cesium 137.
Synonyms
- Radioactive cesium (a more general term that can refer to other isotopes like Cs-134).
- Fission product cesium.
Related Phrases
- Cesium 137 source: Refers to a sealed container holding the isotope for use in irradiation devices.
- The hospital's blood irradiator contains a cesium 137 source.
- Cesium 137 contamination: Specifically denotes pollution by this isotope.
- The cleanup focused on areas with high cesium 137 contamination.
Noun
-
a radioactive isotope of cesium used in radiation therapy
