Question

The radioisotope used in agriculture is :

• A. ${}_{15}{P}^{31}$
• B. ${}_{15}{P}^{32}$
• C. ${}_{11}{Na}^{23}$
• D. ${}_{11}{Na}^{24}$

Answer 1

The correct option is B ${}_{15}{P}^{32}$

${}_{15}{P}^{32}$ is used in plant sciences for tracking a plant's uptake of fertiliser from the roots to the leaves. The phosphorus-32-labelled fertiliser is given to the plant hydroponically or via water in the soil and the usage of the phosphorus can be mapped from the emitted beta radiation. The information gathered by mapping the fertiliser uptake show how the plant takes up and uses the phosphorus from fertiliser.