What energy does Iodine-123 (I-123) have?

Iodine-123 (I-123) emits gamma rays primarily at an energy level of 159 keV. This characteristic energy is crucial for its applications in nuclear medicine, particularly in diagnostic imaging. Gamma rays of this energy are well-suited for detection using standard gamma cameras, providing the necessary sensitivity and resolution for imaging the distribution of radiotracers in the body.

The energy of 159 keV allows for effective penetration through human tissues and reduces the amount of scatter, which enhances the quality of the imaging. Moreover, I-123 is commonly used in procedures such as thyroid scans due to its favorable half-life and energy characteristics that align with the requirements of diagnostic imaging techniques.

Understanding the emitted gamma energies of various isotopes assists practitioners in choosing the appropriate radiopharmaceuticals for specific imaging requirements, ensuring optimal patient care and accurate diagnostic results.