Some facts:
- 1/2 life of 8 days
- present in nuclear fission products and had health effects from Chernobyl
- it comprises about 3% of the total products of fission
- beta decay = notable for causing genetic mutation and death to cells it penetrates
- thought to be less dangerous in large quantities because it will kill the thyroid instead of having cancer develop later
- can been seen with gamma cameras
- decays to Beta emissions plus xenon 131
- exposure from food, water... will build up in the thyroid gland as it decays the beta emissions can damage the thyroid more dangerous in young people with adult effect has not shown to be significant
- the risk can be mitigated by taking iodine127 supplements and potassium iodide (KI) which reduces the uptake of the radioactive isotope Iodine 127 are not radioactive
- post treatment isolation: if a person is contaminated the person should not have sex for a month and women should not get pregnant for 6 months
- iodine 131 waste from decay can be eliminated through urine, sweat and semen.
- it is advisable to change and clean bedding, towels and clothing
- expose person can set up alarm at airports
For the full article see Wikipedia
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