radioactive tracer

tracer /trac·er/ (trās´er)

1. a dissecting instrument for isolating vessels and nerves.

2. a mechanical device for graphically recording the outline of an object or the direction and extent of movement of a part.

3. a means or agent by which certain substances or structures can be identified or followed.

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radioactive tracer  a radioactive isotope replacing a stable chemical element in a compound and so able to be followed or tracked through one or more reactions or systems; generally one that is introduced into and followed through the body.

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radioactive tracer,

a molecule containing a radioactive atom, which can be followed through a physiologic system with radiation detectors.

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radioactive tracer,

n a molecule to which a radioactive atom has been attached so that it can be followed through a physiologic system with radiation detectors.

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radioactive

characterized by radioactivity.

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radioactive decay

spontaneous decomposition of the nuclei of the atoms of radioactive substances. Measured as the proportion of the atoms in a radionuclide that decompose per unit of time, usually stated as the half-life of that particular isotope.

radioactive fallout

dissemination of radioactive substances through the atmosphere and deposition on the environment generally; causes radiation injury.

radioactive isotope

radionuclide. A radioactive nuclide, e.g. radioactive iodine or strontium.

radioactive tracer

see radioactive tracer.

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tracer

a means by which something may be followed, as (1) a mechanical device by which the outline or movements of an object can be graphically recorded, or (2) a material by which the progress of a compound through the body may be observed.

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radioactive tracer

a radioactive isotope replacing a stable chemical element in a compound introduced into the body, enabling its metabolism, distribution and elimination to be followed in the living animal.