Cobalt-60 is a radioisotope that emits a form of electromagnetic radiation from the isotope cobalt-59, through gamma decay. This radioisotope can be used all throughout the body and is an essential factor for cancer therapy and critical complications to the brain like brain tumors. The reason for this is because cobalt-60 is very precise and one of the most advanced radiation treatment obtainable in our society. Cobalt-60 is not only used for medical or surgical purposes but is needed for the industry and for our scientific community. It is used for the research of aerospace, nuclear energy industries and for processes such as industrial radiography which is done to inspect metal part and welds for defects. Cobalt-60 was discovered by Glenn T. Seaborg and John Livingwood in the University of California, Berkeley in the late 1930’s. This radioisotope was first found by adding more neutrons into cobalt-59 through a nuclear reactor. Then, a supplementary neutron was attracted by the nucleus, converting the original isotope into a radioisotope, which is the reason …show more content…
When sterilizing foods or medicines, because of the gamma rays they will not be damaged. The reason for this is that gamma rays have high levels of radiation which allows it to sterilize without any problems. Even though, there are many beneficial aspects towards cobalt-60, there are also some reasonable disadvantages and hazards to be careful of. Gamma radiation is the most penetrating out of the other two. Gamma is also what is used to decay Cobalt-60 which suggests that it is not the best solution for the body especially as it can cause skin burns, acute radiation sickness and death. The co-60 that is injected into the body can be absorbed by the kidney, liver and bones. This absorption can cause cancer due to the exposure concerning gamma