Technetium
Technetium
Technetium (pronounced /tɛkˈniːʃiəm/) is a chemical element with the symbol Tc and atomic number 43. It is the lightest element whose isotopes are all radioactive; none are stable, excluding the fully ionized state of 97Tc. Nearly all technetium is produced synthetically, and only minute amounts are found in nature.
Etymology
The name Technetium originates from the Greek word Technetos, meaning "artificial", since it was the first element to be artificially produced.
Properties
Technetium is a silvery-gray metal that tarnishes slowly in moist air. The common oxidation states of technetium include +4, +5, and +7. Technetium can be a catalyst in some chemical reactions.
Uses
Technetium-99m is used in around 20 million diagnostic nuclear medical procedures annually. It is well suited to the role because it emits readily detectable gamma rays, and its half-life is short at six hours.
Health Effects
Exposure to technetium can have harmful effects on the health of humans. Technetium-99m, used in medical procedures, is typically safe because it emits low energy radiation and leaves the body quickly. However, other forms of technetium can increase the risk of cancer and cause damage to the body's cells and tissues.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Technetium
- Wikipedia's article - Technetium
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