Radiation Safety Practice Exam

What is promethium-147 commonly used for?

1. Illumination in fire control devices

2. Powering nuclear reactors

3. As a coolant in nuclear plants

4. Maintaining structural integrity

The correct answer is: Illumination in fire control devices

Promethium-147 is primarily used for illumination purposes, especially in applications such as fire control devices. This isotope emits beta particles and has a relatively high energy release, making it suitable for providing a consistent light source. Due to its ability to emit light without the need for an external power supply, it is often used in glow-in-the-dark applications. The usage of promethium-147 in other areas, such as powering nuclear reactors or serving as a coolant in nuclear plants, is not applicable, as those functions typically involve isotopes that can sustain nuclear fission or store thermal energy, respectively. Similarly, while maintaining structural integrity is important in various engineering fields, the role of promethium-147 does not align with enhancing or maintaining structural components. Thus, its primary and most notable application is indeed for illumination, particularly in specialized devices.