What are radio active tracers?

Radioactive tracers are substances that contain radioactive isotopes and are used in various fields, particularly in medicine and environmental studies, to track the movement of materials within systems. These tracers emit radiation that can be detected and measured, allowing researchers to visualize processes such as metabolic activity in the body or the flow of water in ecosystems. In medical applications, they are often used in imaging techniques like PET scans to diagnose diseases. Their ability to provide real-time data makes them valuable tools for both research and clinical purposes.