At a cancer treatment centre in Kingston, Jamaica, a cobalt-60 source is used for radiotherapy. Cobalt-60 emits gamma rays. Why are gamma rays preferred over alpha particles for treating deep tumours?

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Question

At a cancer treatment centre in Kingston, Jamaica, a cobalt-60 source is used for radiotherapy. Cobalt-60 emits gamma rays. Why are gamma rays preferred over alpha particles for treating deep tumours?

Accepted Answer

Gamma rays can penetrate deep into body tissue — Award 1 mark for identifying penetrating ability. Alpha particles would be stopped by the skin and could not reach deep tumours. C is incorrect — cost is not the primary consideration. A is incorrect — alpha particles actually cause MORE ionisation. B is incorrect — cobalt-60 has a half-life of about 5 years, which is relatively long.

Answer

Gamma rays can penetrate deep into body tissue

Answer

Gamma rays have a shorter half-life

Answer

Gamma rays cause more ionisation than alpha particles

Answer

Gamma rays are cheaper to produce

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